Sheriff offices across the state are preparing for an influx of paperwork related to the renewal of firearms concealed carry permits. In 2011, the Iowa State Legislature changed from “may issue” to “shall issue”, taking away much of the discretion that sheriffs had in issuing carry permits. Following the change permit holders surged from 39,000 non-professional holders to more than 101,000 that year in Iowa. Washington County Deputy Robyn Hoppman told KCII since the change Washington County has seen its carry permit holders go from “a few hundred to a few thousand.”

Some laws in Iowa prohibit someone from gaining a concealed carry permit they range from being a felon, under the age of 21, having a drug or alcohol addiction, or a misdemeanor assault conviction. Those thought likely to use a weapon to endanger others can also be denied a permit but documented evidence of danger is required.