A dramatic change in the rules for CCW permit holders takes place on January 1st.
New applicants and people renewing their permits are scrambling to get it done before the end of 2023.
Gun Safety Bill "SB2" is just two weeks away from becoming law. It focuses on people who have permits to carry a concealed weapon.
Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux heads the California State Sheriff's Association.
"The biggest issue that we're finding with this particular bill is basically it says you can't carry your gun anywhere. You can't carry it in church, you can't carry it in public places and so what is the purpose behind that," Boudreaux said."
The State Sheriff's Association opposes the new law. In the past sheriffs and police chiefs had the final say in granting CCW permits.
On January 1st, 2024 the State Department of Justice takes over jurisdiction.
Jake Belemjian has four instructors at the Firing Line who teach courses for CCW permits.
"We're overrun with phone calls, people wanting to get into classes, Belemjian said.
There is a finite number of classes available.
In two weeks his instructors will need new training to become a DOJ certified trainer.
"Starting January first you need a license to teach a class but the state's not going to accept applications to become certified to teach this class to obtain that certificate until January first," Belemjian said.
That delay creates a trickle-down effect for people renewing their permit or seeking one.
"This is gonna basically slam the brakes on anyone applying and depending on how long it takes to get his figured out, if your permit expires after January first you won't be able to take a class to renew it," Belemjian said.
Senator Anthony Portantino says his bill will increase public safety. Sheriff Boudreaux believes it violates the Second Amendment.
"How is this going to by putting more restrictions on law-abiding citizens going to make us safer?" Boudreaux said.
Frankly, I think it's going to make us less safe.
The gun lobby has gone to court seeking a preliminary injunction to stop the law from taking effect in January.
A hearing on the request for a preliminary injunction is scheduled in U.S. District Court in Southern California on Wednesday afternoon.
