The bill would apply to any domestic violence victim with a protective order.

That order would allow a local sheriff to issue a temporary concealed handgun permit.

"You still get a background check,” Rep. Linda Johnson (R-Cabarrus) explained. “You still get the same options. But it does address the urgency of the domestic violence victim. So it will give the sheriff another tool to use in trying to help domestic violence victims."

The state House could vote on the bill next week.