'Constitutional carry' supporters await Noem administration

Supporters of legislation that would allow people to carry concealed handguns without a permit in South Dakota anticipate revived prospects for the conservative prize under Republican Gov.-elect Kristi Noem.

The legislation has languished for years under retiring GOP Gov. Dennis Daugaard, but Noem offered support for a so-called constitutional carry law during her campaign.

Incoming Republican Sen. Lynne DiSanto, sponsor of a permitless concealed carry bill that Daugaard vetoed, says such legislation is likely in the upcoming session. DiSanto says she's optimistic.

Transition team spokeswoman Kristin Wileman says Noem won't commit to legislation until she can review its text. But Wileman says Noem is a strong Second Amendment supporter and thinks provisions like constitutional carry can "protect and even strengthen this right for South Dakotans."

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