Law to allow concealed weapons; eliminates permit requirement
Chase Johnson
On April 16, Governor Jan Brewer signed Senate Bill 1108 into law. The law eliminated the requirement to have a permit when carrying a concealed weapon. Arizona joined Vermont and Alaska in the passing of this form of legislation.It included a mandate that gun owners have to answer if an officer asks them if they are carrying a concealed weapon, and will provide officers the ability to temporarily confiscate a weapon as they talk with an individual or during traffic stops.
Some did not think the new law was a good idea.
“I just think it’s a little crazy to let people carry guns all around, it’s kind of scary,” said Justine Petersen.
However, there were some who supported the new legislation.
“It’s like this, people who shouldn’t have guns, will have them either way. This law just gives law abiding citizens who may not have time to go to a class to be able to carry a weapon for defense,” said Derrick Holt.
Arizona’s process to obtain a permit will still be in place, but not as a requirement.
“I think if I were to carry a concealed weapon, I would still take the class anyway, because I really don’t know much about guns and I would like to feel confident in handling one if I ever needed to,” said Jose Rascon.
Vini Lima, a member of the Mesa track team, stated that he felt the permits were necessary to harbor a safe environment.
“They create more chaos than they do anything else,” Lima said.
Having a permit will still be necessary if a person wanted to carry their weapon into a bar or restaurant where alcohol is served. A permit will be required when traveling outside of Arizona as well.
The education requirements have also changed for individuals interested in acquiring a permit. Hands-on training and minimum class hours will not be required.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety webpage stated that there are currently 155,701 active permits, 1,819 suspended and 1,010 revoked.
The new law is expected to become effective in July or August.
Information on how to get a concealed-weapons permit can be found at http://www.azdps.gov/services/concealed_weapons/
