DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Gov. Kim Reynolds has signed a bill that will make handgun carry permits and background checks on unlicensed sales optional in Iowa.
As of July 1, people will be able to buy handguns from private, non-licensed sources such as websites, gun shows and individuals without a permit or background check.
People also will be able to carry a gun into public places such as grocery stores and malls without prior safety training or a permit.
The bill Reynolds signed Friday passed the House and Senate with support from only one Democrat.
Most Democrats called the measure a dangerous reversal of commonsense safety measures. Republicans insist it recognizes that keeping and bearing arms is a fundamental right for law-abiding citizens.
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