Survey: N.H. voters overwhelmingly oppose measure to repeal license requirement for concealed carry
A new survey indicates New Hampshire voters overwhelmingly oppose a proposed change to the state’s gun laws that would allow a person to carry a loaded, concealed firearm without a license.
Wednesday, the New Hampshire House is scheduled to vote on Senate Bill 116, which would repeal the license requirement for carrying a concealed pistol or revolver. The Senate passed the measure 14-9 in a straight party vote. The House Criminal Justice committee also approved the bill along party lines with Republicans unanimously supporting the measure and Democrats on the committee rejecting it.
The survey of New Hampshire voters, performed by Public Policy Polling from April 9 to 13, found Granite Staters oppose the policy change by a three to one margin. 71% of those surveyed expressed opposition to the measure compared to 23% who supported it.
The opposition extends across party and ideological lines. Democrats (87%-9%), independents (71%-22%) and Republicans (55%-37%) all oppose the measure by substantial majorities. Very liberal (88%-9%), somewhat liberal (93%-5%), moderate (71%-21%) and somewhat conservative (55%-38%) voters all oppose the measure. The only group supporting the change are very conservative voters (38%-50%).
Public Policy Polling interviewed 747 New Hampshire voters for the survey. 80% of the interviews were conducted over the phone, 20% took place on the internet. The margin of error is +/-3.6%.
