Spartanburg residents and local business owners gathered at OneSpartanburg’s building on North Pine Street to gain clarity on navigating South Carolina’s new permitless carry bill. The law, signed last month, allows South Carolinians 18 and older to carry firearms, concealed or open, in most places.
Adam Whitsett, general counsel for the State Law Enforcement Division, led the discussion at the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce, advising on interactions with individuals carrying firearms. He outlined exceptions to the law and the rights of businesses, employers, and property owners.
Business owners can post signs banning firearms without government approval, while churches can allow individuals to carry with permission. Employers can decide if employees may carry, and certain places like law enforcement agencies and government buildings prohibit firearms.
Individuals cannot carry firearms into others’ dwellings without permission, and parks and public lands have specific rules. Law enforcement cannot search someone solely for carrying a firearm, but may if they suspect criminal activity.
The law also expanded the range of individuals prohibited from carrying firearms, introduced graduated penalties for violators, and lowered the age to obtain a Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) to 18. SLED will offer free CWP classes to incentivize training.
Overall, the discussion provided valuable insights for Spartanburg residents and businesses on navigating the new law and ensuring safety and compliance in the community.