Fiscal Note
BILL # SB 1177 TITLE: concealed weapons permit; renewal
application
SPONSOR: Gowan STATUS: Senate Engrossed
PREPARED BY: Jordan Johnston
Description
SB 1177 would require the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to send a reminder notice and renewal application
form to each concealed weapons permit (CWP) holder at least 60 days prior to the permit expiration date.
Estimated Impact
In the short run, we estimate the bill will cost DPS approximately $300,000 annually to mail paper notifications to
CWP holders. This cost includes staff time, postage, and supplies. DPS would like to automate the notification
process, but they do not yet have an estimate of those IT costs.
DPS estimates that the staffing costs of the bill will be between $19,300 and $38,600 annually to add a new part-
time position. The department has not yet estimated its postage and supply costs.
Analysis
DPS issues permits to carry a concealed weapon to residents of the state, provided the applicant meets certain
criteria, such as being a U.S. citizen and demonstrating competence with a firearm.
According to recent data from DPS, there are 414,259 currently active CWPs. To print and send the applications
and reminders vial mail, it would cost about $240,300 annually in postage costs, assuming the standard rate of
$0.58 a letter. This cost may be lower if DPS qualifies for bulk mailing rates.
We have assumed approximately $20,000 in costs for supplies. In addition, the department would incur some
staffing costs to send out these letters, which DPS estimates would cost between $19,300 and $38,600 annually for
a new part-time position. The postage, supply and staffing costs combine for an estimated annual cost of
approximately $300,000.
In the long term, DPS anticipates upgrading their CWP Tracking System. This IT system, amongst other capabilities,
enables permit holders to apply and renew their CWPs online. The upgrade would entail options for automatic
renewal notifications (via mail and electronic mail). DPS has requested a cost estimate for this upgrade and they
are currently awaiting a response from a vendor. Using electronic mail for notifications would effectively eliminate
the need to pay postage costs for renewals.
Local Government Impact
None
3/28/22