Palmetto State News

The state Legislature's recently passed Open Carry with Training Act, a Second Amendment law that allows citizens with training to openly carry guns, went into effect last month.

“Today, the Open Carry With Training Act goes into effect making South Carolina a proud Second Amendment sanctuary state,” Gov. Henry McMaster said on Twitter.

The changes signed and approved by McMaster in May, allow individuals to obtain training teaching safe methods to openly carry guns under a jacket or a similar clothing item, WCNC reported. Before the legislation was passed, South Carolina formed part of a group of five states who still hadn’t implemented the law. 

“If you're in a situation when somebody jumps you and you gotta address time, can you draw your firearm and use it when you have to? If you carry more openly, it’s a lot easier to access your firearm if you need it,” William Griffin, owner of Griffin Company Firearms and Ammunition in South Congaree, told WCNC.

Despite the state’s decision to loosen up on carrying requirements, WCNC reported, gun owners are still required to undergo extensive training to obtain a valid permit, and guns will still not be allowed in "weapon-free zones" such as schools and courthouses.

WCNC also reported that private business owners will still have a say in whether they’d like to permit guns inside their establishments. 

"I will proudly support any legislation that protects or enhances a South Carolinian's ability to exercise their Second Amendment rights, and that's exactly what this bill does," said McMaster as he signed the bill into law, according to WCNC.