Lifetime handgun-carry permit bill signed

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Governor Bill Haslam has signed legislation that allows Tennesseans to get a lifetime handgun-carry permit.

During the recent legislative session, the House passed the measure 90-3, and the Senate approved it 30-2.

Haslam signed it this week.

Before the new law, a permit was valid for four years.

Now, Tennessee residents at least 21 years of age can pay $500 for a lifetime permit.

A criminal record check will be done every five years.

The state Safety Department can suspend or revoke a permit if the department finds a person no longer satisfies requirements.