Substitute Bill No. 6817 is a legislative proposal concerning the issuance of temporary permits to carry a pistol or revolver, the establishment of a response plan for mass shooting events, and the posting of an individual's rights related to owning, possessing, and carrying firearms. The bill amends existing law by requiring local authorities to provide a detailed written reason when denying an application for a temporary state permit to carry a firearm within eight weeks of the application. If the local authority fails to expressly deny the application within this period, the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection must issue a state permit or provide a detailed written denial. The bill also stipulates that the failure of the local authority to review an application for a temporary state permit is not grounds for the commissioner to deny issuance of a state permit.

Additionally, the bill introduces new sections that require the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection to include a response plan for mass shooting events in any comprehensive plan and program. This plan must involve coordination with various community leaders and the Project Longevity Initiative to understand and prevent future mass shooting events. The bill also mandates the deployment of grief counselors and mental health professionals to assist those affected by mass shootings and requires an investigation into each mass shooting event, including how firearms were acquired and the backgrounds of the perpetrator and victims. Finally, the bill requires law enforcement units to post information about individuals' rights to apply for a permit to carry a pistol or revolver and their constitutional right to own, possess, and carry a firearm. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2023, for sections related to permits and from the date of passage for the new section on mass shooting response plans.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 29-30, 53-202b, 53-202c, 53-202d, 53-202f, 53-202w