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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 19, 2026     
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Sheriff Shannon Dicus Applauds Unanimous Approval of AB 1948 in Assembly Public Safety Committee

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – San Bernardino County Sheriff Shannon Dicus issued the following statement after the Assembly Public Safety Committee unanimously approved AB 1948 (Ramos), a measure co-sponsored by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department to improve the efficiency of California’s concealed carry licensing system.

“I want to thank Chair Nick Schultz, Assemblymember James Ramos, and the members of the Assembly Public Safety Committee for their unanimous support of AB 1948. This legislation reflects a thoughtful, balanced approach to improving how concealed carry licenses are administered in California.”

AB 1948 extends the duration of a concealed carry weapon (CCW) license from two years to three years beginning January 1, 2027. The measure does not alter eligibility requirements, background checks, or training standards, but instead focuses on improving administrative efficiency and reducing unnecessary burdens on both applicants and local law enforcement agencies responsible for processing permits.

In San Bernardino County’s demand for CCW permits continues to grow. The Sheriff’s Department currently oversees thousands of active permit holders, issues nearly 1,000 new permits annually, and processes more than 4,000 renewals each year. Each renewal requires background checks, records verification, training confirmation, and supervisory review—even when no changes have occurred with the applicant.

“The current two-year renewal cycle creates unnecessary administrative burdens for both applicants and issuing authorities,” Assemblymember James Ramos said. “AB 1948 streamlines the process, reduces costs for residents, and allows law enforcement agencies to focus on oversight and public safety.”

The Assembly Committee analysis found that extending the license duration streamlines the administrative process for both applicants and local law enforcement agencies responsible for issuing permits. The measure is also expected to help stabilize application cycles and reduce the risk of backlogs driven by surges in demand.

AB 1948 is supported by a broad coalition of law enforcement organizations, including the Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC), the California State Sheriffs' Association (CSSA), and numerous local public safety associations statewide. No opposition was submitted in committee.

The bill now advances to the next stage of the legislative process.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is the law enforcement agency for the largest geographical county in the nation. Sheriff Shannon Dicus currently serves as San Bernardino County’s 36th Sheriff-Coroner. The department serves over 2.3 million residents, with eight county and 14 contract patrol stations and over 4,400 employees to ensure the quality and safety of those we serve.