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HSB 166

A bill for an act authorizing a judicial officer to be issued a professional permit to carry weapons.

2025-2026 Regular Session

HSB 166 allows judges and county attorneys to carry firearms for safety, requiring proficiency exams and permits to enhance security in their professional roles.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 530.
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Bill Summary · HSB 166

Summary of HSB 166 (Renumbered as HF 530)

Purpose and Intent

HSB 166 is a proposed legislative bill aimed at authorizing judicial officers, including judges and county attorneys, to be issued professional permits to carry weapons. The bill seeks to enhance the safety and security of judicial officials by allowing them to carry firearms as part of their professional duties.

Key Provisions

The bill amends Section 724.6 of the Code 2025, introducing several important changes:

  1. Eligibility for Permit:

    • The bill expands the list of individuals eligible for a permit to carry weapons to include:
      • Judicial officers
      • County attorneys
      • Assistant county attorneys
    • An application for a permit by an assistant county attorney must receive approval from the county attorney of each county where the applicant serves.

  2. Proficiency Examination:

    • The sheriff of the issuing county may require applicants to complete a proficiency examination before issuing the permit.
    • The standards for this examination will not exceed those required of peace officers.
    • Applicants are responsible for covering the reasonable costs associated with the proficiency examination.

  3. Permit Specifications:

    • The permit must be on a form prescribed by the commissioner of public safety, identifying the holder and stating the nature of the employment that necessitates carrying a weapon.
    • The permit allows the holder to carry a weapon anywhere in the state while engaged in their employment and while traveling to and from their workplace.

Who Would Be Affected

The bill primarily affects:
- Judicial officers (judges, magistrates)
- County attorneys and assistant county attorneys
- Law enforcement agencies responsible for issuing permits and conducting proficiency examinations

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: February 12, 2025
  • Subcommittee Meetings: Initial discussions and recommendations occurred on February 17 and 18, 2025.
  • Committee Actions:
    • February 19, 2025: The committee recommended amendments and passed the bill with a vote of 16 in favor, 4 against, and 3 excused.
    • February 20, 2025: The bill was approved by the committee and renumbered as HF 530.

Conclusion

HSB 166 represents a significant change in the legislative framework governing the ability of judicial officers to carry weapons. By allowing these officials to obtain permits, the bill aims to bolster their safety in the performance of their duties. The proposed amendments and procedural requirements reflect a careful approach to ensuring that only qualified individuals are permitted to carry firearms in their professional roles.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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