Staying up to date on firearm legislation is critical for agencies tasked with issuing permits, processing applications, and maintaining public safety. In 2025, several states—including Colorado, California, Washington, and Oregon—have enacted or are preparing to implement significant changes to their firearm permitting laws. From new permit-to-purchase requirements to expanded eligibility for concealed carry permits, these updates reflect an evolving landscape that directly impacts how law enforcement and local governments interact with applicants and manage compliance.
In this article, we break down the key legislative developments you need to know.
Colorado: Introduction of Permit-to-Purchase Requirement for Certain Semiautomatic Firearms
In 2025, Colorado enacted Senate Bill 25-3, introducing a permit-to-purchase requirement for specific semiautomatic firearms with detachable magazines. Effective August 2026, individuals intending to purchase these firearms must:
- Obtain a state-issued permit after completing a certified firearm safety course.
- Undergo a background check.
- Submit fingerprints.
This legislation represents a shift from an initial proposal that sought to ban the sale of such firearms outright. The final version allows for their purchase, provided the new permit and training requirements are met. The law is expected to impact law enforcement agencies, firearm dealers, and prospective buyers, necessitating adjustments to compliance and training protocols.
California: Extension of Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) Permits to Non-Residents
As of April 22, 2025, California has expanded eligibility for Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) permits to include non-residents, following a legal ruling. Non-residents can now apply for a CCW permit under the following conditions:
- Applicants must be members of specific organizations, such as the California Rifle & Pistol Association, Gun Owners of America, Gun Owners of California, or the Second Amendment Foundation.
- Applicants must not be prohibited from possessing firearms under federal or California law.
- Applicants must intend to spend time in the California county where they apply within the next 12 months.
- Applicants must complete the standard CCW application process, including a background check, an interview with the county sheriff’s office, and a firearms training course with a live-fire component.
Washington: Implementation of Permit-to-Purchase Law
In May 2025, Washington State enacted House Bill 1163, establishing a permit-to-purchase requirement for all firearm buyers, effective in 2027. Key provisions include:
- Applicants must obtain a five-year permit through the Washington State Patrol.
- Applicants must complete a certified firearms safety training program within the past five years.
- The permit process includes a background check and fingerprinting.
- The Washington State Patrol’s Firearms Background Check Program is responsible for issuing permits within 30 days (or 60 days if the applicant lacks a state ID).
Oregon: Legislative Developments on Firearm Permitting and Safety Measures
In 2025, Oregon lawmakers advanced several bills aimed at modifying the state’s firearm regulations, building upon the framework established by Ballot Measure 114, which was approved by voters in 2022.
House Bill 3075 aims to refine the implementation of Measure 114 by:
- Processing Time and Fees: Extends the time frame for issuing permits from 30 to 60 days and increases the permit application fee from $65 to $150, with renewal fees rising from $50 to $110.
- Training Requirements: Allows for a combination of online and in-person firearm safety training, including a live-fire component.
- Exemptions: Exempts certain firearms, such as single-shot rifles and shotguns, from the permit-to-purchase requirement, provided the purchaser completes a safety course.
- Privacy Protections: Specifies that information obtained during the application process and background checks is exempt from disclosure as a public record.
- Legal Challenges: Designates Marion County Circuit Court as the exclusive jurisdiction for legal challenges to the law.
Senate Bill 243 proposes the following changes:
- 72-Hour Waiting Period: Establishes a mandatory minimum 72-hour waiting period between the initiation of a background check and the delivery of a firearm to the purchaser.
- Ban on Rapid-Fire Devices: Prohibits the sale and possession of rapid-fire devices, such as bump stocks, that can increase the firing rate of semi-automatic firearms.
- Local Authority: Grants local governments the authority to regulate firearms in public buildings.
These legislative efforts reflect Oregon’s attempt to implement voter-backed gun safety measures while navigating legal, logistical, and public policy challenges that continue to shape the permitting landscape.
As firearm permitting laws continue to evolve across the country, it’s essential that agencies stay ahead of regulatory changes to ensure accurate processing, legal compliance, and public trust. Whether you’re preparing for new permit requirements, adjusting training protocols, or fielding questions from residents and non-residents alike, being informed is the first step in adapting effectively.
Permitium is committed to supporting agencies like yours through these transitions with flexible, compliant, and user-friendly permitting solutions. If you have questions about how our software can help, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help your agency serve your community with confidence.
