North Fulton Today

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp recently voiced his support for legislation that would loosen requirements to carry a gun in public in Georgia.

Georgia residents are currently required to possess a weapons carry license in order to legally carry a concealed weapon in public, Fox 5 Atlanta reported. To obtain the license, residents must apply through their county's probate court, which involves a background check, a fee of $75 on average and a fingerprint scan.

"I believe the United States Constitution grants the citizens of our state the right to carry a firearm without state government approval," Kemp said in a press conference.

State Sen. Jason Anavitarte, originally filed the legislation in March of last year, Fox 5 Atlanta reported.

"I am proud to be leading the fight to bring Constitutional Carry to Georgia," Anavitarte said in a statement. "Georgians should not need a permit to exercise their 2nd Amendment rights, defend themselves and protect their families. This law will keep safeguards in place to ensure that only law-abiding citizens can purchase and obtain a firearm while eliminating the bureaucratic red tape that infringes on Georgians' constitutional rights. I look forward to carrying this bill across the finish line and having it signed into law."

Kemp is currently in a heated reelection campaign and is looking to fight off a primary challenge from fellow republican David Perdue, who entered the race with former President Donald Trump's support in December, Fox 5 Atlanta reported.

"Building a safer, stronger Georgia starts with hardworking Georgians having the ability to protect themselves and their families," Kemp said. "In the face of rising violent crime across the country, law-abiding citizens should have their constitutional rights protected."