It’s really a well-intentioned idea to require an application and background checks for those people wishing to carry a concealed weapon. However, in practicality, the process inhibits law-abiding citizens from having a gun on them when they might need it most.

You never know when a threat might present itself in a school, work or a domestic situation where time is a matter of immediate safety.

By requiring a permit to carry concealed, we’re taking away a portion of a person’s ability to adequately defend themselves. You can be sure that the person who has the idea to harm someone isn’t going to bother with a permit.

Most people go through life and don’t even think of getting a concealed-weapons permit unless a threat comes up. Then it may be too late.

David Ryder

Portland