DES MOINES, Iowa (KCRG) – A new Republican-sponsored bill at Iowa State House would allow Iowans to buy or carry firearms without getting a license.

From the Des Moines register, House Study Bill 254 went through a House subcommittee on Monday and is now eligible for consideration by the House Public Safety Committee.

Supporters of the bill say it would eliminate the need for Iowans to obtain “an authorization slip” to exercise their right to keep and bear arms.

Opponents say it would threaten public safety and nullify some of Iowa’s background check requirements.

The Iowans could still obtain permits to carry or acquire firearms, but the process would become optional.

People would still need to apply for permits to transport firearms out of state.

Under the bill, anyone purchasing a firearm from a federally licensed dealer would still have to pass a background check or present a license to carry.

Firearms sales between private citizens would no longer require Iowans to first obtain a license.

It would be a Class D felony to sell, rent or lend a firearm to someone who is prohibited from owning one.

It is a crime punishable by 5 to 10 years in prison.

Lawmakers previously considered legislation on unlicensed transport, but proposals never made any headway.

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