The governor and Democratic lawmakers warned that the measure, which takes effect immediately, will allow dangerous people to obtain guns in private purchases.

Photo: AFP.

The Republican-controlled lower house of the North Carolina Legislature struck down a rule that required a permit from a local sheriff to purchase a handgun.

Elimination of the state's gun purchase system, which included the sheriff's permit rule, which also evaluated the character of the buyer, had 71 votes in favor and 46 against.

It is also the first time since 2018 that the legislature has overridden the veto of Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper, who objected to the measure last week.

The governor and Democratic lawmakers warned that the measure, which takes effect immediately, will allow dangerous people to obtain guns in private purchases, where background checks are not required.

It will also limit the ability of the police force to prevent violent crimes.

Supporters of the repeal say the sheriff's screening isn't necessary, because of updates to the national background check system and because that requirement didn't deter criminals.

Three Democrats did not vote on the veto, which helped the Republicans, who needed a Democrat to join them or at least two not to vote.

The measure approved in North Carolina allows the carrying of weapons on school property where religious services are held.

In 2021, Governor Cooper vetoed individual proposals that would remove the requirement to purchase handguns and allow the carrying of weapons in religious services at private schools.

His party had enough seats at the time to block attempts to circumvent the veto.

(With information from AP)