Cobb Reporter

A bill that would allow Georgians to carry firearms in public without a permit is winding its way through the legislative process as the Senate Judiciary Committee recently approved it.

"The requirement to have a permit does not deter nor disincentive a criminal from carrying a firearm concealed," Republican Sen. Jason Anavitarte said in a Fox5Atlanta report before the judiciary committee passed the bill.

Anavitarte sponsored the bill. Permitless carry is often referred to as “constitutional carry,” a term that is rooted in the notion that the Second Amendment of the Constitution guarantees the right to keep and bear arms.

Although he said he thinks looser carry laws would deter criminal acts, Anavitarte said investment in law enforcement and policing is another key component to reducing crime rates.

Democrats expressed concern about the bill, with Sen. Elena Parent suggesting that it would allow criminals easier access to guns. 

"They will do it regardless,” Anavitarte said of criminals. “Permitless carry gives criminals a reason to fear that any potential victim could be armed.”

The bill now heads to the Senate Rules Committee, where the group will make the decision about when the measure may go before the full Senate for a vote. 

As it stands today, Georgians who want to carry concealed firearms must get a weapons carry license, according to state law. Buying a handgun also requires a background check.