SC senators have approved 28-16 a bill to allow open carrying of firearms.

Those who would be allowed to carry a weapon openly must:

• Have concealed weapons permits.

• Undergo background checks.

• Take training to carry guns hidden under a jacket or other clothing.

The bill goes back to the House which earlier passed a similar bill, WCSC and The Associated Press reported.

Gov. Henry McMaster has said he would sign the bill into law.

If so, the state will join 45 other states with open carry laws.

California, Florida, Illinois and New York will be the only states without them.

Some gun advocates have criticized the bill because, they say, open carry will allow lawbreakers to see who is armed.

They say the concealed weapons law reduced crime in SC dramatically because criminals can’t see who might be armed.

Senate changes to the bill mean it has to go back to the House for a vote.

The changes eliminate a $50 State Law Enforcement Division fee for a permit.

On Wednesday, the Senate voted 25-21 to kill another constitutional carry bill.

It would have allowed anyone who can legally own a gun to carry it any where weapons are legally allowed without a concealed weapons permit or training.

Democrats claimed the bill that passed:

• Makes it easy for people to intimidate others.

• Could potentially put minority gun owners at risk if they open carry.

Republicans said the bill:

• Only changes how firearms are carried.

• Protects those with concealed weapons permits who may accidentally expose their weapon in public.