Arizona will join Alaska and Vermont in allowing people to carry a concealed weapon without a permit in 2010.   Arizona Governor Jan Brewer (Republican) signed the pro-Second Amendment law that will go into affect 90 days after the current legislation ends, which is typically mid-summer.

“I believe this legislation not only protects the Second Amendment rights of Arizona citizens, but restores those rights as well,” Brewer, a Republican, said in a statement.

According to an Associated Press article, “…the measure was supported by police unions representing rank-and-file officers, who said their best friend on the streets is a law-abiding citizen equipped to protect themselves or others.  The police chiefs group initially opposed the bill but then took a neutral stance after some provisions were changed at their request. Brewer’s office also participated in negotiations on changes to the bill.”

The means that many citizens who are denied their right to own a firearm because of a felony conviction in Arizona can return to court and petition to have their Arizona gun rights restored under ARS 13-907.  If a judge agrees that the person deserves to have their firearm rights restored, they will be able to carry a concealed weapon.

It is currently a misdemeanor to carry a concealed weapon without a permit in Arizona.  Until the new law goes into affect, a permit issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) is required to carry a concealed weapon.   Issuance of the permit is contingent on passing a firearm safety class.  It is estimated that 300 jobs will be lost at AZDPS and private gun safety classes.

A statement from Arizona Citizens Defense League (ACDL), the pro-Second Amendment group and supporter of the new law, encourages those who plan to carry a firearm to get trained.  “If you decide not to obtain a CCW permit, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t train.  The heaviest thing about wearing a firearm is the responsibility that comes with it.  Take that money that you save on permit and renewal fees and spend it on quality training as often as you can,” said ACDL.

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Written by Record Clearing

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