WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

H 48

CONCEALED WEAPONS – Amends existing law to revise a provision regarding course instruction for an enhanced license to carry a concealed weapon.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 48 allows retired law enforcement officers to instruct firearm safety courses for enhanced concealed carry licenses, improving training access for applicants.

Reported Signed by Governor on March 11, 2025 Session Law Chapter 25 Effective: 07/01/2025
#education #lawenforcement #licensesandpermits #safety #weapons
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 48

Summary of House Bill 48 (H 48)

Title

Concealed Weapons – Amends existing law to revise a provision regarding course instruction for an enhanced license to carry a concealed weapon.

Status

  • Reported Signed by Governor: March 11, 2025
  • Session Law Chapter: 25
  • Effective Date: July 1, 2025

Introduction

  • Introduced on: January 24, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subjects: Education, Law Enforcement, Licenses and Permits, Safety, Weapons

Purpose

The primary intent of House Bill 48 is to allow retired law enforcement officers to continue instructing courses related to firearm safety and enhanced concealed carry certifications after their retirement. Previously, these instructors were prohibited from teaching once they were no longer employed by a law enforcement agency.

Key Provisions

  • Amendment to Idaho Code Section 18-3302K:

    • The bill revises the existing provisions regarding the issuance of enhanced licenses to carry concealed weapons.
    • It clarifies that retired law enforcement officers can serve as certified instructors for handgun courses necessary for obtaining an enhanced concealed carry license.

  • Enhanced License Requirements:

    • The sheriff must issue an enhanced license within 90 days if the applicant meets all qualifications, including:
    • Being over 21 years old.
    • Being a legal resident of Idaho for at least six consecutive months.
    • Successfully completing a qualifying handgun course taught by a certified instructor.

  • Course Specifications:

    • The qualifying handgun course must be at least eight hours long, taught in person, and cover:
    • Idaho law on firearms and the use of deadly force.
    • Safe and responsible use of handguns.
    • Self-defense principles.
    • Live fire training, including firing at least 98 rounds.

  • Application Process:

    • Applicants must submit fingerprints and undergo a national background check.
    • The sheriff must deny applications if the applicant is disqualified under existing criteria.

  • Confidentiality:

    • Information related to applicants and licensees is confidential and exempt from public disclosure.

Fiscal Impact

The fiscal note indicates that this legislation will not result in any increase or decrease in revenue or additional expenditures at the state or local government levels, thus having no fiscal impact.

Affected Parties

  • Retired Law Enforcement Officers: Will benefit from the ability to continue instructing courses.
  • Concealed Carry Applicants: Will have access to a broader pool of qualified instructors for their training.

Procedural Timeline

  • March 11, 2025: Signed by the Governor.
  • March 6, 2025: Passed in the House with a vote of 35-0-0.
  • February 26, 2025: Reported out of Committee with a Do Pass recommendation.
  • January 24, 2025: Introduced and referred to State Affairs.

Conclusion

House Bill 48 aims to enhance the training and certification process for individuals seeking an enhanced license to carry concealed weapons in Idaho by allowing retired law enforcement officers to continue their roles as instructors. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and is expected to have no fiscal impact on state or local governments.

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

Sign in to ask a question.