Substitute House Bill No. 7137 seeks to amend the regulations surrounding the issuance of carry permits and firearms eligibility in Connecticut. The bill repeals subsection (b) of section 29-28 and introduces new criteria for applicants seeking a temporary state permit to carry a pistol or revolver. Key changes include the requirement for applicants to undergo state and national criminal history checks, with disqualifications now encompassing not only felony convictions but also specific misdemeanor violations related to family violence and violent crimes. The bill expands the list of disqualifying offenses to include certain misdemeanors from other jurisdictions, federal, tribal, or military courts within the past seven years, particularly those involving violence, threats, or drug possession (with exceptions for small amounts of cannabis and psilocybin).

Furthermore, the bill establishes that individuals holding a valid permit as of July 1, 2024, will not need additional training and limits applications for temporary permits to once within a twelve-month period. It also sets the minimum age for long gun eligibility certificates to eighteen, requires completion of a state-approved safety course, and mandates that applicants notify the issuing authority of any address changes within two business days. The bill aims to enhance public safety by ensuring that individuals seeking firearms permits have undergone proper training and do not have disqualifying legal or mental health issues. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2025, and the bill is expected to incur additional costs for the state and municipalities due to increased application processing needs.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 29-36f, 29-37p
JUD Joint Favorable Substitute: 29-36f, 29-37p
File No. 782: 29-36f, 29-37p