Greene County law enforcement officials continue to educate the public on the newly passed permitless to carry firearm law in Iowa.

House File 756 no longer requires those who are legally able to carry a firearm to obtain a permit. Greene County Sheriff Jack Williams clarifies a misconception of the new law that he has concerns about.

“This new law still prohibits without a concealed weapons permit to carry a loaded firearm in a vehicle on any public roadway.”

Williams points out those who don’t have a permit, but still want a handgun in their vehicle, must have the weapon unloaded, the ammunition magazine is separated from the firearm and the firearm is out of arm’s reach. As for a rifle or a shotgun in a vehicle, Williams says those without a permit must have the weapon disabled and in a secured case, not easily accessible. 

Williams explains another new piece of the law for those who have been convicted of a serious or aggravated assault charge within the last three years, can’t purchase or possess a firearm. Additionally, Williams describes another misconception about purchasing firearms without a permit at a licensed dealer.

“John Doe can go buy a handgun today and walk out with it today, it’s fasle. They still have to go through the federal FBI’s background check. So there’s still a waiting period. The purchase to permit takes away that waiting period. Then you can actually, if you have that permit, you can walk in, grab it off the shelf, pay for it, and walk out with it at the same time.” 

Greene County Attorney Thomas Laehn says there is an agreement with the sheriff’s office and the Jefferson Police Department to further educate individuals if they are caught by these new stipulations, at least in the beginning stages.

“We don’t want people who are good intentioned, acting in good faith, trying to abide by the law, committing crimes. Because the law is confusing and the public is confused.”

House File 756 was signed into law by Governor Kim Reynolds and went into effect July 1st.