Iowa Gun Laws: What You Should Know

USCCA - 08/05/2019
As a responsibly armed American, you already know how challenging it can be to stay up to date on gun laws…

Iowa gun owners, you’re in luck. We’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked firearms questions in your state. Read on for answers to some of the top questions regarding Iowa gun laws. (Not from Iowa? Check the Legal & Second Amendment tab for your state!)

Is It Legal to Open Carry in Iowa?

Yes. Any person who is at least 21 years old and has an Iowa Permit to Carry Weapons (PCW) can open carry or concealed carry a firearm within city limits. Non-residents with resident permits from states Iowa honors may also open or concealed carry in city limits. No permit is required to open carry outside of city limits.

Can You Carry a Gun in Your Car in Iowa?

Yes, a person may have a concealed and readily accessible handgun in a vehicle with an Iowa PCW or a resident concealed carry permit from a state that Iowa honors. Without a permit, handguns must be unloaded and inside of a closed and fastened container or securely wrapped package that is too large to be concealed on a person. Firearms may also be inside a cargo or luggage compartment where they will not be readily accessible to any person riding in the vehicle. When a motor home is parked and being used as a residence, no permit is required.

Is Iowa a ‘Stand Your Ground’ State?

Yes. Iowa is a Castle Doctrine state as well as a “stand your ground” state. There is no duty to retreat so long as a person reasonably believes that such force is necessary to defend oneself or another from any actual or imminent use of unlawful force. The law applies at a person’s residence, vehicle or place of business. There is civil immunity when using “reasonable force” in defense of self, property or another.

What Are the Concealed Carry Laws in Iowa?

Iowa is a shall-issue state. There are two types of permits available. A resident must be 21 years old and can apply for a non-professional permit at the Sheriff’s office in his or her county of residence. A non-resident 18 years or older can apply for a professional permit at the Department of Public Safety. He or she must also demonstrate a need for a permit, such as owning a business or property in Iowa or frequent travel to Iowa. Concealed carry permits require a firearms training course that has been state-approved. In terms of reciprocity, Iowa recognizes permits from all states and jurisdictions.

How Much Is a Gun Permit in Iowa? How Long Does It Take to Get a Permit in Iowa?

The cost for a new permit is $50, and that permit is valid for 5 years. Renewals cost $25. Iowa issues permits to residents and non-residents. Applicants must complete a firearms training course that has been state-approved. Processing time is 30 days.

Do I Need a Permit to Purchase a Handgun in Iowa?

Yes. Either an annual purchase permit or a valid permit to acquire weapons is required to purchase a handgun in Iowa. There are exceptions for Federal Firearms Dealers, transfers between some relatives and antique handguns. There is no waiting period or firearms registration in the state.

Are Silencers Legal in Iowa?

Yes. Firearm suppressors were legalized in Iowa in 2016. However, prior to acquisition, suppressors must be registered by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). A $200 transfer fee or tax stamp must be paid to the ATF, and the Federal Firearms Dealer you use for the process may also charge a fee. The registration process takes approximately 6-10 months.

 

Concealed Carry News: July 31, 2019

Tim Schmidt - 07/31/2019
Friends:

We’re all familiar with the Virginia Beach tragedy, where a crazed, disgruntled city employee murdered 12 people at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center. We’ve also heard the frustration from one victim’s family, along with many others, that the city of Virginia Beach prohibits its employees from carrying “any weapon” while working on city property because of “gun-free zones.”

This Time Around…

But there was another shooting in Virginia Beach that many in the national media aren’t talking about and which makes clear why allowing law-abiding men and women to protect themselves is so important. This was a shooting where a number of innocent lives were likely saved because of a good guy with a gun.

Barrie Engel, a local café owner, stopped at her nearby 7-Eleven to get a late night snack around 2 a.m. Thursday. As she was waiting for her friend, two masked and armed men barged into the 7-Eleven with their guns out. They told her to stay where she was, guns pointed. That wasn’t a problem for Engel, who was frozen with fear.

As the clerk begged for his life, telling the robber, “Come on, man, don’t do this,” Engel heard gunshots. She dropped to the floor and started praying. Those gunshots, however, were from another bystander — a legal concealed carry holder who decided to take action. Engel is nothing but grateful to the bystander who possibly saved her life Thursday, allowing her to go home to her son.

The Best Defense

We hope that no one is ever put into a position where they have to defend themselves from a criminal. But the scary truth is that there are bad people in this world. And as these stories — along with countless others — show us, the best defense against a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun.

As the media and anti-gun politicians try to capitalize on shootings to push their anti-gun agenda, it’s important to draw attention to the other side of this debate. Guns can be a solution, as seen in the 7-Eleven story. The continuation of conversations like this are why we are so dedicated to educating law-abiding citizens across the country about the importance of exercising our Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms.

Want to have more conversations about exercising your Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms? Join the USCCA Community!

Around the Country

Arizona…

• Ammoland: Constitutional Carry Works in Arizona: Armed 19-Year-Old Shoots, Kills Carjacker
  Arizona, a state with respect for the Second Amendment, allows 18-, 19- and 20-year-olds to carry guns on them and in vehicles. Some carjackers in South Phoenix may have been unaware. A 19-year-old at a Circle K was nearly a victim of a carjacking at 1:30 a.m., July 17.

Florida…

• News Service of Florida: Review Time Cut for Concealed Weapons License, State Official Says
  Earlier this month, Nikki Fried, Agriculture Commissioner for Florida, tweeted that the concealed weapons license program is now more efficient and more accountable. Review times for concealed carry applicants with no prior issues have been reduced from 50 days to one day since Fried took office.

Michigan…

• MLive.com: Michigan House Republicans Look to Reduce Penalties for Gun License Violations
  Gun-rights supporters in the Michigan House are working to decriminalize certain firearms-related offenses as part of a larger effort to roll back regulations on gun ownership and use in the state. House Republicans named protecting Second Amendment rights as one of its top priorities this session. So far, many of the gun-related bills taken up for hearings focus on reducing existing penalties for violating Michigan’s current gun laws or removing restrictions on certain gun use.

Quote of the Week

• After an armed bystander prevented a robbery at gunpoint, Barrie Engel said, “Thank God for that guy because who knows what could have happened … I want to thank that guy personally. I want to buy him a steak dinner.” (The Virginian-Pilot)

Data Point You Should Know…

• According to the Foundation for Economic Freedom, more Americans use a gun in self-defense than die in motor-vehicle-related accidents each year. (Fee.org)

 

Massachusetts Gun Laws: What You Should Know

USCCA - 08/12/2019
As a responsibly armed American, you already know how challenging it can be to stay up to date on gun laws…

Massachusetts gun owners, you’re in luck. We’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked firearms questions in your state. Read on for answers to some of the top questions regarding Massachusetts gun laws. (Not from Massachusetts? Check the Legal & Second Amendment tab to find your state!)

Are Guns Allowed in Massachusetts?

Yes. Massachusetts is a may-issue state, with Licenses to Carry (LTC) issued at the local police station or, for non-residents, through the State Police Firearms Records Bureau. A Firearm Identification (FID) card or LTC is required to purchase a firearm. Background checks are required to buy a handgun from a private individual, as the seller must verify the buyer’s FID with the Department of Criminal Justice Information Services. An LTC is also required to buy ammunition.

Can You Carry a Concealed Weapon in Massachusetts?

Yes, open and concealed carry are legal in Massachusetts for individuals who have a Massachusetts Class A Unrestricted License to Carry Firearms (LTC-A). The minimum age is 21 years old, and LTC-As are issued to residents and non-residents. LTCs require a state-approved firearms training course. Some areas are off-limits, including schools and airports. In terms of reciprocity, Massachusetts does not honor permits from any other states.

Is It Legal to Open Carry in Massachusetts?

Yes. Although uncommon, open carry is permitted for Massachusetts Class A Unrestricted License to Carry Firearms (LTC-A) permit holders only.

Can You Carry a Gun Into a Bank in Massachusetts?

Yes. There is no statute in Massachusetts law that prohibits a Massachusetts license holder from carrying a concealed handgun into a bank.

Do You Have to Register a Gun in Massachusetts?

Yes/No. Although the registration of handguns isn’t required, all sellers of firearms must report firearms sales and transfers to the Department of Criminal Justice Information Services, which maintains comprehensive records of sales and transfers.

Where Can I Carry a Gun in Massachusetts?

Individuals who have a Massachusetts Class A Unrestricted License to Carry Firearms (LTC-A) are allowed to open and concealed carry in most places in Massachusetts. Locations where permit holders are not allowed to carry handguns include the following:

• Elementary or secondary schools, colleges or universities;
• Courthouses;
• Airports;
• Logan Airport security zone;
• When using an off-highway vehicle such as snowmobile; and
• Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law or state law or regulation.

It is illegal to be in possession of a loaded rifle or shotgun on any public way, regardless of whether the possessor has a Firearm Identification Card (FID) or LTC.

Can You Carry a Gun in Your Car in Massachusetts?

Yes/No. Only a person with a Massachusetts Class A LTC may carry a loaded handgun or short-barreled firearm in a vehicle, provided the weapon is under the license holder’s direct control. For holders of Massachusetts Class B LTCs, a handgun must be unloaded and secured in a locked trunk or locked container. Without an LTC, it is illegal to knowingly possess or control a firearm in a vehicle, whether loaded or unloaded, unless the possessor is at his or her residence or place of business or possesses the proper card or license for the firearm possessed.

Ready to Learn More About Massachusetts Gun Laws?

It is your responsibility as a gun owner to know and understand the laws regarding your concealed carry rights. The USCCA’s Concealed Carry Reciprocity & Gun Laws Map has been designed to help inform and educate armed citizens like you. To learn more about Massachusetts’s concealed carry permit application process, concealed carry restrictions and training requirements, visit the Massachusetts gun laws page now…

 

How to Fly With a Handgun

USCCA - 08/10/2019

The travel season is upon us, and sometimes, traveling with a firearm can be tough. As a law-abiding citizen, you may be wondering how to fly with a handgun. In this video, former State Prosecutor Tom Grieve will give you some quick tips.

How Do I Fly With a Handgun?

The first thing you need to know is that everything needs to be unloaded and in a case. The case must be hard-sided with a lock. And ammunition needs to be separate. In some instances, depending on the airline, the ammo will need to be in the original box from the manufacturer.

You need to declare your gun at check-in. And don’t be surprised by several follow-up questions. Your possession of a firearm needs to be legal in both the state you’re flying out of and the state you’re flying into. So check the laws ahead of time. There’s no need to be concerned; just be aware.

 

Concealed Carry News: August 7, 2019

Tim Schmidt - 08/07/2019
Friends:

On behalf of the more than 300,000 members of the USCCA, we mourn for the victims (and their families) of the tragic attacks in El Paso, Dayton and Gilroy. As a parent, nothing is more important to me than the safety and protection of my family, and my heart goes out to everyone who has been affected by these senseless attacks.

I also want to thank the first responders who rushed into harm’s way and put their lives on the line to take down these attackers and prevent further loss of life.

‘Safe Cities’

In the days ahead, we will no doubt learn more about the gunmen and the specific details behind these horrific shootings. Predictably, activists and politicians are already rushing in to attack those who support the Second Amendment and push for new laws that would have done nothing to stop these attacks. They do this while ignoring one of the key points running through the media’s reporting of the tragedies: “These were seemingly safe cities, stores and neighborhoods. How could this happen here?”

One thing that should be abundantly clear to all Americans is that there are evil people in this world. These evil people will perpetrate acts of evil on soft targets (where they believe they will encounter little resistance). In these shootings, the attackers ignored and broke laws and regulations already on the books. In fact, the Gilroy Garlic Festival was a so-called “gun-free zone.”

Anti-gun activists also ignore the reality that, at least in the Dayton attack, countless more lives were saved because the police were on the scene and used their own guns to take down the attacker in less than a minute. But more often than not, it can take several minutes for the police to arrive to an active-shooter situation — when literally seconds matter. Too often, tragedy strikes before first responders are able to arrive. That is why an armed, trained, law-abiding citizen with a gun is the best and first line of defense against a bad guy with a gun.

Two Choices

As my colleague, Kevin Michalowski, executive editor of Concealed Carry Magazine, wrote previously:

There is no way, short of creating a police state, that we could rely on anyone other than ourselves for immediate protection. We have two choices: allow for the creation of a police state where the Second, Fourth and Fifth Amendments are washed away in order for the government to “keep us safe,” or respect the responsibility of law-abiding private citizens to defend themselves.

When an active shooter is engaged by any armed opposition, even if the defender does not fire his or her weapon, the number of people killed in such an event is, on average, two. When an active shooter is not confronted, the average number of dead rises to 14 per incident. So for all those who say, “If we can do something to save just one life, it will be worth it,” the something we should be doing is seeking training and arming ourselves in the unlikely event we are faced with such a mind-numbing tragedy.

Calls for More Laws and Regulations on Guns

Sadly, anti-gun politicians just do not get it, and many in the national media will echo the call for more failed laws and regulations. In fact, this past week, Gov. Cuomo of New York signed a piece of legislation that will make every single student and teacher in New York less safe. The bill denied local school districts the ability to arm volunteer staff and teachers, effectively preventing a first line of defense for every single New York student.

We hope that no one — teacher or civilian — ever has to fire his or her weapon in self-defense. But the purpose of the Second Amendment is to provide every American with the ability to defend himself or herself (and others). Gov. Cuomo and those in the New York Legislature who support this misguided bill have essentially prevented teachers and school administrators from being able to protect themselves and their students while at work.

We should be supporting those who are willing to put themselves at risk to protect those around them during an attack. Instead, Gov. Cuomo and other anti-gun politicians seek to limit citizens’ ability and right to defend themselves.

Around the Country

Florida…

WINK-TV (CBS-Fort Myers, FL): Concealed Carry Permits Among Florida Women Doubles in the Last Four Years

In 2014, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services reported 288,000 women had concealed carry permits. Only four years later, that number has nearly doubled.

Idaho…

Idaho Statesman: In Idaho, You Can Take Your Gun to Town, and to the County Fair

In Idaho, cities and counties cannot ban firearms on public property. So when Idaho Second Amendment Alliance President Greg Pruett heard that Canyon County Fair security was turning away legal concealed carriers, he headed to the fair to tell them they were wrong.

Maryland…

Baltimore Sun: Gun Advocates Challenge Maryland’s Concealed Carry Gun Laws

Maryland Shall Issue, a gun-rights group, is challenging Maryland’s concealed carry laws. A lawsuit filed in the Maryland Court of Special Appeals contends that the state’s laws are unconstitutional and have been superseded by other case precedents, the Frederick News-Post reports.

Michigan…

The Center Square: Michigan Legislation Seeks to Reduce First-Time Concealed Carry Violations to Civil Penalties

House Bills 4200 and 4201, which seek to reduce the first-offense penalty for concealed carrying in prohibited areas, have cleared the House Military, Veterans and Homeland Security Committee. Currently, carrying in barred areas is a felony punishable by up to five years imprisonment, a $2,500 fine or both. Gun-rights supporters hope to reduce this to a $330 civil penalty.

North Carolina…

The Charlotte Observer: Concealed Carry Gun Permits in NC, Mecklenburg County Have Tripled Since 2010

For the first 42 years of his life, David Yamane never touched a gun. But the Wake Forest University professor is now among North Carolina’s concealed carry permit holders, whose numbers have more than tripled since he first nervously pulled a trigger in 2010. State Bureau of Investigations data shows that the number of permits rose from 177,787 in 2010 to 647,553 this Jan. 1.

Quote of the Week

Florida resident Dawn Eisenhauer said she got a concealed carry permit because “I’m a business owner. […] I don’t want to have to depend on someone else to protect me in a situation.” (CBS-Fort Myers, FL)

Data Point You Should Know

There are 647,553 concealed carry permits in North Carolina — triple the amount there were in 2010. (The Charlotte Observer)

 

2020 has been nothing short of interesting so far…

This entire year has been full of things we thought would NEVER happen.

Bushfires in Australia.

A global Coronavirus pandemic.

Devastating natural disasters.

City-sized swarms of locusts.

Civil unrest and riots.

And a financial crisis.

The question that keeps running through my head is, what’s next?

Tomorrow is another day for things to happen, for the unknown to come to fruition...

How can we possibly prepare for things that are beyond our control?

I think we have to start with being realistic about what we CAN control…

...and we can do so by taking action, instead of worrying excessively or stewing in anger.

I want you to consider something:

Starting with your own safety.

Because your safety — even in your own home — can be threatened by increased crime and chaos from all of these events that have been happening around the world.

Now is the time to step up as your family's first line of defense by joining the USCCA...

You can trust us to help you gear up and be truly prepared and protected with benefits only we can offer...

And you’ll get everything you need to become a better protector:

• Education to help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a gun owner, including a map detailing gun laws and reciprocity by state.

• Self-defense training to help you recognize and respond to danger, with an emphasis on situational awareness, avoidance and defensive use of a firearm.

• Legal protection benefits that can shield you from the burden of defense expense and civil damages if you're ever forced to lawfully defense yourself ... because you can be arrested, jailed and sued even if you did everything right.

• Exclusive bonuses that will help you improve your self-defense skills. Whether you're a new gun owner or have a renewed interest in safety amid the uncertainty, these free bonuses could help save your life.
  
• Entry to win two great giveaways with over $20,000 in prizes up for grabs.

If you’re serious about this, here’s the link to join:

https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/membership/

I can’t wait to share all of the lifesaving benefits of USCCA Membership with you!Take care and stay safe,


Tim Schmidt
USCCA President & Founder
1-855-388-4075
timschmidt@usconcealedcarry.com | www.uscca.com

 

Florida: House Passes Constitutional Carry

view the web version of this email

Today, the House voted 76-32 to pass House Bill 543, the constitutional carry bill. It will now go to the Senate for further consideration. Please contact your state senator and ask them to SUPPORT HB 543.



House Bill 543, constitutional carry, strengthens the right to self-defense in Florida by recognizing the right of any law-abiding adult who is at least 21-years-old and legally eligible to obtain a carry permit, to carry a handgun without first having to obtain government permission. This ensures that citizens have their right to self-defense without red tape, delays, or fees. It does not change who is eligible to obtain a carry permit. It also does not affect previously issued permits, and allows citizens who still wish to obtain a permit in order to carry in other states recognizing Florida’s permits, to do so.

Your NRA would like to thank lead sponsor Representative Chuck Brannan for bringing this important legislation and Speaker Paul Renner for his exceptional leadership through the process.

Again, please contact your state senator and ask them to SUPPORT HB 543.



FOLLOW NRA-ILA