Tebedo said her main goal is to set statewide standards for concealed-handgun permits. Making it mandatory that sheriffs issue permits to qualified applicants is secondary, she said. Tebedo said she would change the bill to win Gov. Bill Owens Owens ' support. Dick Wadhams, Owens' spokesman, said it was too early for the governor to comment on legislation. Sheriffs and police chiefs now have a lot of discretion in deciding whether to issue concealed-weapons permits.
Some counties grant the permits if applicants meet certain guidelines.
Others demand that applicants show a compelling need to carry a gun and issue just a handful of permits. Gun-rights advocates have complained the law is inconsistent and open to abuse by local law enforcement officials. The Daily Camera. All rights reserved. Any copying, redistribution, or retransmission of any of the contents of this service without the express written consent of The Daily Camera is expressly prohibited.