The sheriff in Bates County, Missouri is waiving the cost of concealed carry permits for the month of June following the mass shooting in Orlando that claimed 49 lives.
Sheriff Chad Anderson says that after what happened over the weekend at the Pulse nightclub, he wants people who live in his community to feel safe and protected.
"I feel that I have a Duty to Protect the Citizens while here in Bates County and allow them to be able to protect themselves and their loved ones while they are away," Sheriff Anderson said. "I will continue to pray for peace for our country and the world. But I will not put blinders on and act like this can not happen here or to people we know and love. I want to say a Big Thank You to the Law Enforcement and First Responders Community for what you are willing to sacrifice for our nation at home. While this will be debated on so many different levels please remember that your local first responders are the ones that will be there ready at a moments notice to handle any of these threats."
The fee is being waived for Bates County residents only.
The permits are valid for five years and for a first-time permit holder, it costs about $100. To renew a permit, it costs about $50.
The next concealed carry class is on July 9 and those people will be able to receive licenses for free as well, even though that class takes place in July.
The permits can take up to 45 days to process.
