Firearms: license to carry concealed.
By reinforcing the existing conditions under which a license may be issued, the bill ensures that applicants demonstrate good moral character, provide good cause for the issuance of a license, establish residency or principal employment in the county, and complete an appropriate course of training. This legislative action does not introduce new requirements but rather clarifies the existing provisions, which could lead to broader understanding and compliance among law enforcement agencies and applicants alike.
Assembly Bill 1746, introduced by Assembly Member Melendez on February 22, 2019, amends Section 26150 of the California Penal Code concerning firearm licenses. The bill seeks to make a technical, nonsubstantive change to existing law that allows the sheriff of a county or the chief of a municipal police department to issue licenses for individuals to carry concealed handguns. The essence of the bill is to streamline the licensing process while maintaining the core requirements for applicants.
While the bill itself introduces no new restrictions or requirements, it may still encounter opposition from advocates for stricter gun control measures. Critics may argue that overly lenient provisions for issuing concealed carry licenses could contribute to issues of public safety. Proponents, on the other hand, may view the bill as a necessary adjustment to ensure individuals' rights to bear arms are preserved within a framework that mandates appropriate checks and training.