Since 1995, the law has required the state to issue the permit within 60 days unless the background checks find some reason not to issue the concealed weapon permit.

"The current language in the statute does not allow them to deny them a permit if they can't find anything. It just assumes they have been eligible," said Rep. Merlynn Newbold, R-South Jordan.

About 1,000 people from outside the country have obtained a Utah permit, she said.

Under her legislation, HB195, if the native country denies access or doesn't have an adequate criminal database, the state can deny the concealed weapons permit.

The measure, which is endorsed by the Department of Public Safety, passed the House Law Enforcement Committee and goes to the full House for consideration.

- Robert Gehrke

HB195

Would prevent foreign visitors from getting concealed weapons permits unless their homeland shares background information.