Alabama: Critical Pro-Gun Bill Introduced

On March 1, state Senator Jabo Waggoner (R-16) introduced Senate Bill 304 in the Alabama Legislature.  This critical bill seeks to solve the significant disparity in concealed weapon permit fees between counties.  SB 304 will accomplish this fix by allowing law-abiding individuals to apply for a permit in any county in the state.  Senate Bill 304 has been referred to the Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs.  Please contact members of the Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs and respectfully urge them to support SB 304.  Please click the “Take Action” button below to contact the members of the Committee!

Some counties in Alabama charge up to $125.00 for a 5-year concealed weapon permit.  Others, such as Jefferson County, charge less than $40.00 for a 5-year permit.  This significant price disparity creates a system where concealed weapon permits can be cost-prohibitive in the more expensive counties.  The NRA believes that concealed weapon permit fees should only reflect the actual cost of fulfilling all statutorily mandated responsibilities associated with the permitting process; any financial obligation in excess is a revenue generating tax.  Your fundamental right to self-defense should not be held hostage in exchange for excessive taxes.

This legislation would not change existing background check requirements.  Upon issuance of the concealed weapon permit, the Sheriff of the county in which the permit is issued would be required to notify the Sheriff of the county of residence that a permit has been issued.  Both the Sheriff of the issuing county, and the Sheriff of the county of residence would subsequently have authority to revoke the permit for any valid reason. 

Once again, please click the “Take Action” button above to contact members of the Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs and respectfully urge them to support SB 304!