Lowers from 19 to 18 the age at which a person can obtain a concealed carry permit, and makes a corresponding change to the offense of unlawful use of weapons
The passage of SB 700 would revoke previous sections of related statutes, implementing new guidelines for concealed carry permits. It outlines strict criteria around criminal background checks, including prohibitions for those with felonies or certain misdemeanors. This reform could lead to a more uniform approach to concealed carry permit issuance across Missouri, as local authorities are mandated to adhere to state-level regulations. Moreover, this bill is expected to increase the number of concealed carriers in Missouri, as it reportedly removes some barriers to obtaining these permits.
Senate Bill 700 proposes significant updates to Missouri's laws regarding concealed carry permits. The bill aims to streamline the process for issuing lifetime and extended concealed carry permits, defining who is eligible to hold such permits and the required procedures for obtaining them. Key provisions of the bill include age requirements, residency status, and comprehensive background checks that applicants must fulfill to be granted a permit. The bill is seen as a move to enhance Second Amendment rights across the state while ensuring responsible firearm ownership.
Discussions around SB 700 have highlighted several points of contention. Advocates for the bill argue that it promotes personal safety and aligns with constitutional rights, enabling more citizens to lawfully carry firearms. Conversely, opponents raise concerns about public safety implications, questioning whether easier access to concealed carry permits might increase gun violence or accidents. There are also fears about how this legislation might affect law enforcement's ability to manage and track firearms, as the bill emphasizes the protection of permit holder information, which might complicate background checks and legal responsibilities.
Notable aspects of the bill include the stipulation that a sheriff will retain discretion in the application process, potentially leading to variances in permit issuance across different counties. It allows for the appeal of denied applications, emphasizing due process. Additionally, personal data regarding permit holders will be heavily protected, which some argue might hinder law enforcement's ability to monitor dangerous individuals.