BALLSTON SPA, NEW YORK — In a Press Release issued just moments ago, Sheriff Michael H. Zurlo has announced his department’s plans to help law-abiding citizens get their hands on unrestricted concealed carry permits.
First, let’s go over just exactly what an unrestricted permit is… for those of you who don’t live in the state of New York.
In New York State, an applicant looking for a permit to carry will –more times than not– receive a permit with restrictions. These restrictions are administrative in nature, and include things like “Hunting and Target Only”, meaning that the holder is only allowed to carry his or her firearm while hunting, or going to and from the range.
To try and possess the coveted unrestricted permit can send permit holders through hoops of fire and lengthy battles with their masters. While some succeed, many will fail.
From the Press Release:
Following recent meetings with representatives from area gun clubs and County firearms instructors, a plan has been devised that would allow law-abiding and responsible gun owners to obtain an unrestricted concealed carry permit upon completion of a live-fire safety and qualification course as well as classroom training on the legalities and responsibility of carrying a concealed firearm. To be eligible to obtain an unrestricted pistol permit in Saratoga County a person would first need to possess a restricted pistol permit for a period of one year and successfully complete the live-fire safety and qualification course. Upon successful completion of this course a certificate of completion will be provided to the permit holder who may then request that all restrictions be removed from his or her permit. It is anticipated that an unrestricted pistol permit may be issued by the County’s pistol permit licensing officer to anyone who successfully completes this course, provided that all other statutory requirements are met.
So, to have an actual process to go through is encouraging. It’s a step in the right direction, but no where near perfect. Compare this new policy to, say, Albany County, where it’s up to the individual judge to make the decision. I’ve shown you first hand what the outcomes of that process look like.
Baby steps. Some portions of the state are light years ahead of others, though.
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