A House panel is set to debate the merits of a tax credit for concealed carry permit holders.
Rep. Steve Montenegro of Litchfield Park sponsored the bill to create a dollar for dollar tax credit up to $80 for people who get a concealed weapons permit. The measure states its purpose is to promote public safety.
The National Conference of State Legislatures says this is the first they've heard of a state offering a tax credit for gun permits.
State officials say Arizona has more than 250,000 registered carriers as of January. To get a permit, individuals must be over 21 years old, go through a background check and have some firearms training.
The House Ways and Means Committee is set to debate House Bill 2494 on Monday afternoon.
