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 1707) would allow county sheriffs to issue firearms identification cards and permits to purchase handguns, and to accept applications for permits to carry handguns. It shifts this authority from municipal police chiefs (in areas with full-time police departments) and the state superintendent to county sheriffs. This change primarily affects residents in counties without full-time police departments who seek firearm permits. Eligibility requirements for permits (e.g., no felony convictions, domestic violence restrictions) remain unchanged under current law.