March 2020 is a record setting month of gun sales in the U.S. based largely on the fear and uncertainty the COVID-19 pandemic has stirred in the hearts of people from all walks of life.
I’m sure that there are more new people with firearms out there than ever before, and staying safe and legal in this difficult time is imperative.
As most of you know as of January 1, 2017, you do not need to purchase a concealed carry permit in the State of Missouri to carry a firearm concealed or open.
However, many states still require a permit and if you plan to travel with your firearm at your hip, there are some important issues to deal with before hitting the road – though I understand being on the road is not a suggested practice in the time of COVID. It will be soon as the summer sun heats us up.
Many states honor concealed carry permits from Missouri, so having a license is key if you are on the state line or plan to do a little social distancing by drive.
Because of COVID, Governor Mike Parsons said last week that he is suspending late penalties for concealed carry permit renewals, so one really doesn’t have to renew on time right now because the Governor wants us to stay at home.
Many local Sheriff’s Departments are suspending in-person applications for the permit, and only processing renewals by phone because of COVID. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department has suspended all new permit processing till at least April 24, 2020. The Cass County Sheriff has closed its front lobby completely and is not taking any renewals or new registrations. Clay County, Platte County, and Lafayette County Sheriffs don’t have any on-line notices at this time, but you can click the county name and check out their website for who to call.
The surrounding states that honor Missouri’s CCW permits are as follows: Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Iowa, and Nebraska does if you are 21 years of age or older. Illinois does not recognize a Missouri CCW license so lock it up in the trunk if your traveling through the Land of Lincoln.
For a complete list of states around the U.S. go to Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt’s concealed carry reciprocity page.
No matter what, the Missouri DWI & Criminal Law Center at the Benjamin Law Firm team wants to urge all of you to stay safe and legal with your firearms during this COVID crisis and beyond.
