June 28, 2010RE: IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR CONCEALED HANDGUN LICENSEDear Concealed Handgun License Holder:
Back in 2008, a case came before the Oregon Court of Appeals regarding the disclosure of the names, addresses and other identifying information of people who, like you, have a concealed handgun license (CHL). In short, the media and other groups were asking for information about all the people who have a CHL. As your Sheriff, I have refused to disclose that information, as it is my belief that people obtain a CHL for their security and the security of their families and do not want that information made public. In addition, as we are all aware, identity theft is also a growing concern.
The Oregon Court of Appeals has since ruled on this case, and has determined that CHL is a public record unless someone specifically cites to the sheriff that they are obtaining one as a security measure to protect themselves or their property. That ruling can be viewed by clicking on this link: http://www.publications.ojd.state.or.us/A139107.htm
While I believe that you obtained your CHL as a security measure, and that you would not want anyone to have access to your name, address and other personal information, I do not know that for certain. We have been asking applicants this information on our CHL applications since 2008, and will continue to do so. We are also continuing to provide the link below so that you can answer these questions if you applied for your license prior to 2008, and have not renewed.
If you answer “yes” to the confidentiality/security questions (link below) or on your application, your application information will not be disclosed to the public and will be confidential.
If you answer “no” to the confidentiality/security questions, your information will be released to any entity who requests the information, except your social security number and driver’s license number will be redacted.
Please answer two questions by clicking the link below. I thank you for your cooperation and understanding that the Sheriff’s Office must follow the Court of Appeals ruling in this matter.