Thaindian News

DES MOINES, IOWA (BNO NEWS) – Iowa Governor Chet Culver signed Senate File 2379 into law on Thursday, a legislation that standardizes the weapon permit process across the state, state officials said.

Previously, decisions on whether to issue people permits to carry weapons were made at a local level at the sheriff’s discretion, with inconsistencies among counties. Senate File 2379 makes all counties required to grant weapon permits unless the requesting person meets criteria for denial.

“I am signing this bill because I believe there doesn’t need to be any conflict between the freedom to carry firearms and public safety,” Culver said during a signing ceremony at the State Capitol. “Instead, I believe that law-abiding citizens who are placed in situations in which their life and property are threatened should be able to protect themselves, and their families. When firearms are used properly by people who are trained in their use, public safety can increase in terms of crime prevention.”

The new law has some restrictions. For example it will not provide or ensure approval of application for people who are likely to be a danger to themselves or their communities. The application will be approved if the applicants are trained in firearm safety, and continue to show proficiency in control of it.

However, the application could be denied if the applicant committed previous illegal acts or has a tendency to commit a violent act with the firearm. Also, permits will only be granted to people who are at least 21 years of age.

“This bill strikes an appropriate balance, recognizing the rights of law-abiding Iowans guaranteed by the Second Amendment and the duty of local law enforcement officers,” Culver said.