SB 252 - This act makes it legal to carry a concealed firearm if certain conditions are met. A person must have a permit to carry a concealed weapon. A person must apply to the county sheriff where he lives. The applicant must meet the following criteria: 1) be at least twenty-one years old, a U.S. citizen and a six month resident of Missouri; 2) has not been convicted a crime punishable by more than one year in prison; 3) is not a fugitive from justice or currently charged with a crime punishable by more than one year in prison; 4) has not been dishonorably discharged from the armed services; 5) is not an alcohol or drug abuser; 6) is not currently mentally ill; 7) has not exhibited violent behavior in the past; and 8) has demonstrated to the sheriff a knowledge of gun safety.

The sheriff may only ask questions necessary to determine the accuracy of the statements made in the application. After reviewing the application to his satisfaction, the sheriff shall issue a permit to carry a concealed firearm within seven business days. The sheriff may refuse to issue a permit if he believes any of the requirements have not been met or if he thinks the applicant has made a false statement. The sheriff may revoke a permit if any of the required conditions ceases to exist.

Any person twenty-one or older may allege in an affidavit that a person who has a permit is suffering from mental illness or has violated a criminal law. If the allegation is true, the sheriff shall rescind the permit.

The permit shall bear a photograph and description of the applicant and must be signed by the applicant. The sheriff shall keep a record of all applications and report the issuance and revocation of permits to the Missouri uniform law enforcement system (MULES). No one shall alter or transfer a permit to another. A sheriff shall charge a fee of up to fifty dollars for each permit. Permits will be valid for three years.

When a sheriff refuses to issue a permit, the applicant shall have the right to appeal the denial within ten days of receiving written notice of the denial. Such claims will be heard in small claims court. A sheriff will not be personally liable for refusing to issue a permit.

Any citizen, merchant, not for profit group, or public body has a right to deny access to those with concealed firearms to buildings they own or lease. A sign shall be posted stating this prohibition. Those entering in violation of this prohibition are considered trespassers.
JAMES KLAHR