Permit needed for concealing

YOUR THOUGHTS

TO THE EDITOR:

House Bill 113, a bill that would eliminate the requirements of a concealed weapons permit and proof of completion of a concealed weapons course, recently passed the Wyoming House.

To carry a concealed weapon, I agree that qualified American citizens shouldn't have to ask the government's permission. Proof of passing a certified, classroom-based, concealed weapons course, however, should still be required.

Every qualified person has a right to carry a gun out in the open, however, there are special considerations that should be made for concealed weapons.

Last year I took Sheriff Becker’s twoday concealed weapons course in anticipation of obtaining my permit. It was absolutely invaluable. He taught gun handling skills, gun safety, legal concerns, self-defense using a concealed handgun, effective shooting postures, holstering/carrying options, and how to safely remove a concealed weapon to use it.

This last part, to me, seems like one of the most critical basic-elements of the training. It is all too easy for a gun to go off through improper holstering or while un-holstering it. Both scenarios seriously endanger the shooter and everyone around.

Before we can drive, we have to prove we know how to drive and that we know the law. Allowing concealed weapons carry without mandatory training is like handing over the keys to an Indy car without knowing if the person is capable of handling the responsibility– and the responsibility of concealed carry is far greater than I ever imagined before taking Sheriff Becker’s course. It isn’t Hollywood, it’s real.

I would urge anyone who agrees with my opinion to contact your state senator and voice your concerns. For those who disagree with me, I would only ask you to seriously consider what I’m saying. Rights and responsibilities go hand in hand.

Susan Sherwood,
Glenrock

Editor’s Note: House Bill 113 was not approved by the Senate committee and thus died.

This is part of the March 4, 2010 online edition of The Glenrock Independent.

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