A vote was delayed Wednesday on a bill allowing Alabamians to carry a concealed firearm without a permit. Lawmakers say the Senate Judiciary Committee ran out of time before a vote could be held. The bill is opposed by some sheriffs and gun control groups, who say it would make the public less safe. But the sponsor, Sen. Gerald Allen (R-Cottondale), said his measure is consistent with the Constitution. "The Founding Fathers gave us the right to possess a firearm ... to be able to protect our families, our businesses, our personal properties." The committee is expected to vote next week.