With the upcoming Presidential election, many government agencies are bracing for a potential surge in weapons permit applications. However, it’s essential to remember that elections are just one of several events that can drive an increase in permit requests.
In addition to elections, agencies should also be prepared for surges in applications during:
- Natural Disasters: In the aftermath of hurricanes, earthquakes, or other natural disasters, individuals may seek weapons permits for self-defense or to protect their property.
- Social Unrest: Periods of civil unrest, protests, or riots can lead to an increase in weapons permit applications as citizens seek to ensure their safety.
- Legislative Changes: Proposed or enacted legislation related to gun control, concealed carry, or firearms regulations can drive interest in obtaining weapons permits.
- High-Profile Crimes: Highly publicized crimes, such as home invasions or violent assaults, can create a sense of vulnerability, leading to an increase in weapons permit applications.
A close examination of the 2016 Presidential election year offers valuable insights, providing a clear lens through which we can anticipate future trends. Notably, the 2016 data serves as the most relevant indicator for 2024, untainted by the extraordinary circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
- U.S. Firearm Sales: In 2016, firearm sales surged by 3 million units leading up to the Presidential election.
- Concealed Carry Permits: The number of concealed carry permits issued in 2016 saw a significant increase, with over 1.83 million new permits granted.
- Background Checks: October 2016 marked a record high for background checks, with the highest number recorded in a single month since the inception of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
Modernizing the Weapons Permit Process
Given the anticipated surge in weapons permit applications, it is crucial to streamline the permit process to meet the needs of both citizens and administrative staff. Traditional methods, often characterized by lengthy wait times and cumbersome paperwork, are no longer sufficient. This is where innovative solutions like Permitium’s PermitDirector come into play, revolutionizing the way weapons permits are managed.
Top Benefits:
- Improve citizen satisfaction: Trade paper-based processes for online management.
- Decrease stress on staff: Cut back on in-person visits and paperwork.
- Offer convenient payment: Securely accept more payment methods.
- Reallocate staff hours: Take back staff time to focus on higher priorities.
Real-World Impact of PermitDirector
PermitDirector has already demonstrated its efficacy in numerous jurisdictions, offering a streamlined, efficient, and user-friendly approach to permit management. Here are some real-world testimonials that underscore its transformative impact:
“PermitDirector has eliminated our paper process… Before Permitium, it would take about 90 days to get a license issued; now it’s about 30 days.” – Francis Cop, Multnomah County Sheriff, Oregon
“Before PermitDirector, our process was a nightmare. Everything was walk-in, with people literally lined up outside the door down the street for blocks, waiting for two hours to apply. PermitDirector has been an absolute game changer; we’ve gone from 100% in-person to now less than 10% of our applicants coming in person. We love it.” – Rebecca Hendricks, South Sound 911, Washington
Preparing for the Future
By understanding past trends and modernizing your weapons permit processes, agencies can proactively address the challenges ahead and provide a better experience for citizens and staff.
Permitium is proud to serve over 500 agencies across 25 states, and we are continuously expanding our reach. Our mission is to enable government agencies to modernize their permit processes, ensuring accessibility and efficiency for every citizen.
Key Benefits of Permitium:
- Multiple Pricing Options: Including a no-cost option and opportunities to add funds to your agency, making it accessible for various budgets.
- Fast Implementation: Be up and running within 60 days, ensuring a swift transition to a modernized system.
- User-Friendly Interface: Both citizens and staff quickly adapt to and embrace the system, leading to immediate improvements in the permit application process.
Check out our latest case study here or reach out to Permitium for a demo here.
