In the near future, I intend to introduce legislation clarifying that police officers under 21 years of age may lawfully carry a handgun when they are off duty.  Under current law, Pennsylvania’s Uniform Firearms Act (Act) generally requires individuals to be at least 21 years of age to apply for a license to carry a firearm (LTCF).  However, there is a statutory exception under the Act that allows law enforcement officers to carry a handgun without first obtaining an LTCF, in recognition of the critical role they play in protecting our communities. 
 
Despite this exception, there exists significant ambiguity regarding its application to law enforcement officers who are under 21 years of age when they are not actively “on duty.”  This uncertainty has prompted some police departments to adopt policies prohibiting their younger officers from carrying their department-issued handguns outside of work hours.  This leaves them unable to respond to emergencies in the same way as their older counterparts, despite having completed the same rigorous firearm training and qualification requirements.
 
I firmly believe that police officers are never truly “off duty.” Whether in uniform or not, they should be equipped to act decisively when threats to public safety arise.  By addressing this gap in the law, we can ensure that every officer - regardless of age - has the tools necessary to protect themselves and the communities they serve.
 
Please join me in cosponsoring this important legislation to better protect our Commonwealth.