Governor signs off on concealed-carry curriculum

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By NATE JENKINS / The Associated Press

Gov. Dave Heineman has signed off on the curriculum for classes that will be held across the state: How to safely carry a concealed handgun.

Now that guidelines for the training course are in place, those who want to teach the class must apply to the Nebraska State Patrol. Once residents pass the course, they must visit to one of six State Patrol headquarters in the state to apply for concealed-carry permits that will cost $100 apiece. Applications will be taken starting Jan. 2.

Training courses will start as soon as the patrol approves trainers, said spokeswoman Deb Collins. The regulations approved Wednesday follow a state law passed this year by the Legislature that will allow residents to carry concealed handguns. The law requires applicants to pass background checks and complete handgun training and safety courses.

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Heineman

Heineman

Concealed weapons will not be allowed in a variety of places, including bars, police stations, public meetings, athletic events, schools, churches, hospitals and banks. Signs also could be posted prohibiting the carrying of concealed weapons in other locations.

It was estimated that licenses could be granted to more than 64,000 people in Nebraska.

The state law also allows cities to bar concealed weapons or add further restrictions, and some cities have already taken action.

Lincoln already has an ordinance barring gun possession by people who have been convicted of stalking, resisting arrest or violating a protection order. After the state law was passed, the Lincoln City Council added to the list people who have been convicted of assault, drug crimes, unlawful intrusion, domestic assault or public indecency.

In Omaha, the City Council overrode Mayor Mike Fahey’s veto of an ordinance that reverses the city’s longtime ban on concealed weapons. The city’s regulations are now in line with those contained in the state law.