Good evening,
It understand that an acquaintance has attempted to apply for an NH pistol and revolver license at your town's police department, and was not even allowed to turn the application in because it did not contain information that has been requested that is not on the form. Per NH RSA 159.6 sec b:
"The director of state police is hereby authorized and directed to prepare forms for the licenses required under this chapter and forms for the application for such licenses and to supply the same to officials of the cities and towns authorized to issue the licenses. No other forms shall be used by officials of cities and towns. The cost of the forms shall be paid out of the fees received from nonresident license"
This is an affront to the laws set forth in this great state, and to this person's personal liberties. I am very disappointed in the story I have heard, and I think you should be as well. Furthermore, and the reason I am sending this email to you, the town manager, is that when this case is brought to court, your town could be liable for court costs and legal fees for the plaintiff.
I might suggest that you and the city attorney review the process by which your police department issues P&R licenses, and I think you'll find that it is not in accordance with NH state law, which cannot be usurped in this case by local laws, as per the NH state constitution.
My opinion is that if this individual goes to court over this, he will prevail. While my opinion may not matter to you, as I am not a resident of your town, the opinion of the judge that this will eventually be brought before will most certainly hold more sway. Please take a moment to review your processes, and possibly save the town some real headaches.
Sincerely,
Jibbr71