Governor Greg Gianforte signed a new law on Thursday that will allow Montanans to carry their firearms in more places. According to the governor's office, House Bill 102 will protect Montanans’ Second Amendment rights and promote public safety.

“Every law-abiding Montanan should be able to defend themselves and their loved ones. That’s why today, I’m signing H.B. 102 into law,” Governor Greg Gianforte said before signing the bill.

The new law will allow Montana gun owners to carry a concealed firearm for self-defense throughout the state without written authorization from the government. Montana joins nearly 20 states with similar legislation.

Before signing the bill, Governor Gianforte pointed to history, saying, “Our Second Amendment-protected right to keep and bear arms is part of Montana’s, and our nation’s, rich heritage. We have a responsibility to preserve it.”

Representative Seth Berglee (R-Joliet), the bill’s primary sponsor, and Senator Theresa Manzella (R-Hamilton) joined Governor Gianforte in celebrating the bill’s signing.

Representative Seth Berglee, Republican from Joliet, said, “House Bill 102 ensures that law-abiding Montanans’ right to self-defense is protected from state barriers. This legislation allows concealed carry without a permit in the same places that open carry is currently allowed, which is the safer modern way of carrying firearms. I thank Governor Gianforte for signing this Republican priority bill into law."

The National Rifle Association was also pleased with the new law. Brian Gosch, Montana state director of the NRA, said, “Montanans should not have to seek government approval and jump through bureaucratic hoops in order to exercise their right to self-defense. Gov. Gianforte recognized this and worked to codify these rights. The NRA thanks the governor and the bill's prime sponsor, Rep. Seth Berglee, for sending a clear message: in Montana,​ self-defense rights are recognized and respected.” ​

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