Post-Election Pistol Permits Skyrocket

(MOBILE, Ala.) Jan 2, -- Historically, when the economy slumps, the number of people applying for pistol permits jumps, but this year there is another reason why this waiting room is so crowded. Fears of big changes in 2009 have people like the Hubers rushing to get their permits.

Carla Huber says, "better to be safe than sorry you know. So I just figured, go ahead and join the crowd." And what a crowd that is. Since the presidential election, Mobile County has seen about one thousand more permits requests than in the same two month period last year.

Baldwin County's numbers have tripled. Sheriff's Office Spokesman Anthony Lowery says it's because, "theres a lot of talk about the new administration and what he may do as far as gun restrictions. So most people say they want to go ahead get their permit and get their fire arm before the inauguration."

So far President-Elect Obama hasn't announced any plans for gun reform, but people like Carla aren't convinced. As a senator, Barack Obama opposed concealed carry...something alabama's pistol permit allows.

"Maybe one day our gun rights will be limited," she says,"or taken away totally. That is in the back of my mind." ...And part of the reason she stuck it out through the hour or more wait.

Mobile County is asking for volunteers to help them process permits and keep up with the demand.  "One of the ladies processing said this was the busiest they've ever been," Carla says, "they looked a little stressed, but handled it well."  Now she says, she's just waiting to see how the incoming president handles the issues.