SB 960 - This act revises laws regarding concealable firearms. A person commits unlawful use of a weapon by carrying a concealed firearm without a permit. The permit may be issued by another state or a subdivision of another state. Peace officers are exempted from certain criminal provisions, whether they are within or outside of their jurisdiction or on or off duty. The prohibitions against discharging a firearm into a dwelling house or within 100 yards of a school, courthouse or church, or exhibiting a weapon in an angry manner, do not apply to persons acting in self-defense.

The permit to carry concealed weapon shall be issued by the sheriff in which the applicant resides, if the applicant: is at least 21 years of age, a citizen of the United States and a resident of this state for at least six months; and has taken at least twelve hours of a firearms training course approved by the department of public safety. The sheriff shall conduct a criminal background check with highway patrol. A permit fee shall not exceed $75, and a renewal fee shall not exceed $35. For renewal, applicant must, at the request of the sheriff, demonstrate proficiency in handgun safety and handling. Sheriff shall keep a record of all applicants, shall report issuance of permits to MULES. Anyone may post clearly visible sign prohibiting concealed weapons on their property.

A referendum is set for August, 1999, with specified ballot language.
JOAN GUMMELS