Indiana’s HB1071 passed in the Indiana House with a 71 – 26 vote and is now headed to the State Senate. If the bill becomes law, according to Guy Relford, prominent Indiana firearms attorney and Second Amendment advocate:

“This will allow those lawfully able to possess a firearm, and found to be at the greatest risk, the ability to protect themselves.”

This Bill essentially states that anyone who meets the following criteria can legally carry a concealed firearm for personal protection:

• Must be a woman or man over the age of 18.
• Must have obtained an order of protection as a result of being a victim of sexual assault, domestic violence, or stalking.
• Must be eligible under all federal and Indiana state laws to legally purchase, own, and carry a concealed firearm.

The ability to carry concealed under this law is only supported for 60 days starting from either the day a personal protection order is granted, or from the day the individual applies for their carry license.

Sean Eberhart, R-Shelbyville, the author, said it is voluntary and not all women will feel comfortable. But for those fearful of going to work or church or the grocery (store) after a protective order is issued, it allows them to carry a firearm. He repeatedly noted that no state or federal limitations on buying or owning a gun are pre-empted by the legislation.

“This gives them an option to defend themselves,” Eberhart said.

Since there appears to be some controversy between this bill and HB1159, the new legislation has an additional provision. The provision requires a summary of constitutional carry issues as they relate to the possibility of eliminating state issued concealed carry permits.

For Second Amendment advocates removing the laws that require a permit, thereby enabling Constitutional Carry, would be their end goal. However HB1159 faces an uphill battle, as it does not have the same support especially from Law Enforcement, as does HB1071. The passage of HB1071 appears to be a step in the right direction until further support for HB1159 can be obtained.