Permit to Carry Numbers Way Up in St. Louis County

Numbers Highest They've Ever Been in Minnesota

Duluth, Minn.-Permit to carry numbers were the highest they’ve been in Minnesota since firearms permit laws were introduced in the state in 2003, according to a report released today by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

About 71,000 permits were issued in 2016.

In St. Louis County, about 32,000 were issued last year, which up over 800 from 2015.

“Minnesota’s Personal Protection Act was first enacted in 2003,” said the BCA in a prepared statement. “Permits were first eligible for renewal in 2008. Individuals wishing to obtain a Minnesota permit to carry must apply for the permit at their local sheriff’s office and provide proof of approved firearms training.”

The total number of permits throughout the state currently, is about 265,000.