Allows county sheriffs to issue firearms identification cards and permits to purchase handguns; authorizes county sheriffs to accept applications for permits to carry handguns.

This bill (S 1868) allows county sheriffs in New Jersey to issue firearms identification cards (for rifles/shotguns) and permits to purchase handguns, expanding the current authority held only by municipal police chiefs. It directly affects county sheriffs, who would now process these applications, and residents seeking firearm permits. The bill amends state statutes to explicitly authorize sheriffs to issue these permits, while maintaining existing eligibility requirements (e.g., no domestic violence convictions, no mental health restrictions). It does not change who qualifies for permits but changes which officials can issue them.