The James City County Police Department is offering free firearm safety courses to residents starting later this month.
The department released six scheduled one-session class dates spanning from Feb. 24 to May 30 when James City County residents can learn basic safety, handling, storage, and laws related to carrying a concealed handgun, according to a recent news release.
And according to signups, the first class is already booked with all 35 slots filled.
Like safety classes offered to residents in York County, there’s no hands-on instruction and attendees should leave their personal firearms at home, but the class in James City County does fulfill the “proof of competency” requirement in the application for a concealed handgun permit.
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The recent controversy in the General Assembly to enforce stricter gun laws in the state could be the cause of increased interest in firearm safety courses, York-Poquoson Sheriff, J.D. “Danny” Diggs, said in a previous interview.
While the requirement can also be met with proof of military service, a valid hunting license, or completing an online firearm safety course, restrictions on course standards (including eliminating the online option) are currently with the General Assembly for consideration.
As of Friday, the House Committee on Public Safety passed SB 263, “Concealed handgun permits; demonstration of competence.”
“Anyone” is permitted to attend the James City County firearm safety course, said Stephanie Williams, a spokeswoman for JCC Police, in an email.
Upon completion, participants will receive a certificate of attendance, free gun lock, and firearms safety material.
All classes are at the Law Enforcement Center, 4600 Opportunity Way, and online pre-registration is required by clicking here.
The next class is scheduled for March 7 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Contact Master Officer Alan McDowell for more information by phone, 757-603-6026, or email, alan.mcdowell@jamescitycountyva.gov.