Sheriffs across Missouri are watching closely the recent developments from the hearings of the Senate Appropriations Committee concerning the Department of Revenue releasing information on carry conceal weapons permits issued by Sheriffs. This information has apparently been shared with the Social Security Administration Inspector General by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

The names of CCW permit holders are confidential under Missouri law. The only place in Missouri where the names of all concealed carry permit holders is stored is among driver license records since permit holders have a special mark on their licenses indicating they have been granted the privilege of carrying a gun.

Sheriff Kevin Bond, 2nd Vice President of the Missouri Sheriffs' Association, met with other board of directors via conference call April 12, 2013, approving the following statement:

Missouri Sheriffs share in the concerns of the Senate Appropriations Committee about the release of carry conceal weapons permit holders personal information. Local Sheriffs are charged by statute with the duty of processing applications, gathering background information and ultimately issuing the conceal carry certificate. In doing so, we are entrusted with individual personal information. We have a duty, as Sheriffs, to hold that information to the strict standards of the law and the constitution in protecting the citizens we were elected to serve. As this investigation continues by the committee and possibly the Attorney General, Missouri sheriffs are engaged with all parties to assist in formulating changed policy and procedures which will better serve to safeguard the personal information of Missouri carry conceal certificate holders.

Pettis County residents with questions or concerns are urged to contact Sheriff Kevin Bond at 660-827-0052 or sheriff@pettiscomo.com.

This press release provided by the Pettis County Sheriff's Office.

More From KIX 105.7