LANSING (WKZO-AM) — New rules take effect this week on how permits to carry concealed weapons will be issued.
Current gun owners with CCW permits won’t be impacted until they have to renew.
It will make the process easier for anyone who may get a gun for Christmas or are thinking of getting what is technically called a concealed pistol license.
Republican lawmakers have decided to disband local gun boards to streamline the process, but it will still require a fingerprint and a background check.
From now on, the Michigan State Police will do the identity and background checks and, if the person meets the age requirement, has undergone training and has no criminal history or record of mental illness, the county clerk will issue the permit.
It takes local law enforcement out of the process and critics say it removes an important safeguard to the community. Without the gun boards, there will be no one who can require interviews to determine if a person was fit to handle the responsibility or was known to local law enforcement as a potential risk.
It will mean lower fees for first-time applicants and higher fees for renewals.
The National Rifle Association-supported measure takes effect Tuesday.
– John McNeill
