Hello and welcome to the Intelligence on Economist Radio.

I'm your host, Jason Palmer.

Every weekday we provide a fresh perspective on the events shaping your world.

Scotland has often developed a breakaway spirit, but Brexit has supercharged Scottish nationalism.

This week's elections will determine the likelihood of another independence referendum.

We look at the risks and the costs of a dis-united kingdom.

And over time it's become a bit warm for many of the world's coffee plantations.

The most widespread types only grow in a narrow temperature range.

Now researchers have rediscovered a forgotten, heat-friendly cultivar for the climate change era.

But first, a new law comes into force in Utah today that will allow people to carry guns in public without the need for a permit.

Across America, many states are making it easier for people to carry their guns without being subject to a background check or going through training.

That trend is at odds with President Joe Biden's administration, which is looking to tighten regulations around weapons in the wake of recent shootings.

Gun violence in this country is an epidemic. We say it again.

Gun violence in this country is an epidemic and it's an international virus.

But with Congress unlikely to pass federal regulation because of Republican opposition, the states are where the legislation is being reshaped.

It's left some with looser gun laws than existed in the 19th century.

This is a pretty fundamental change. 20 years ago only Vermont allowed people to carry handguns without a permit by the end of this year at least 20 states will.

Alexandra Suejbass is the economist's senior correspondent for politics, technology and society.

So far this year we've seen five states pass permit-licks carry laws. Utah's goes into effect today.

And in Utah, guns must be concealed. So in holsters say tucked underneath the jacket.

But other states like Tennessee are going to allow people to carry their handguns in plain sight.

Five more states, including Louisiana and South Carolina, are considering permit-less carry bills.

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