SB264 Summary

• Sheriff must issue or deny concealed pistol permits within 30 days of complete application; permits valid for 1-5 years (applicant's choice) instead of one year; fee capped at $50 aggregate for five-year period.

• Establishes appeal process for permit denials and revocations through a review panel of probate judge, district attorney, and bar association president; sheriff must prove by clear and convincing evidence that applicant would likely use weapon unlawfully.

• Allows pistol possession in private motor vehicles without concealment presumption; prohibits employers from restricting firearm storage in employee vehicles or inquiring about firearms; provides civil remedies including reinstatement and attorney fees for violations.

• Consolidates state preemption of local firearms regulation; nullifies local ordinances regulating possession, ownership, transfer, sale, or licensing of firearms; allows Attorney General to pursue civil actions against violating political subdivisions.

• Repeals prior prohibitions on firearms at public demonstrations, carrying pistols on another's property, and municipal handgun ordinances; visible, holstered firearms in public do not constitute disorderly conduct.