Bill > HF530

This bill modifies Iowa's existing weapons permit laws to expand the categories of government officials who can be issued professional weapons carry permits, specifically adding members of the general assembly, judicial officers, the attorney general, deputy attorneys general, and assistant attorneys general to the list of individuals who can obtain these permits. The bill allows these newly added officials to carry weapons anywhere in the state at all times, including on school grounds, and their permits will remain valid throughout their period of employment. When inside a courtroom, these permit holders must carry weapons in a concealed manner, with an exception for peace and correctional officers performing their duties. The bill also requires that permit applications for these new categories be submitted to the county sheriff, who may require a proficiency examination with standards not exceeding those for peace officers. Additionally, the bill adds a definition for "judicial officer" and grants the supreme court the authority to impose additional training or requirements on judicial officers who obtain these weapons permits. The changes aim to provide added security and flexibility for certain government officials in carrying weapons as part of their professional responsibilities.