Should gun-carry permit applications be public?

Many permit owners are uncomfortable knowing that their addresses, gun purchases and other personal information, such as past addictions, are public records. On the other hand, public gun permit databases could help keep firearms out of the hands of criminals. John Harris, executive director of the Tennessee Firearms Association, said the House committees that deal with Second Amendment issues favor privacy.

What some are calling a matter of privacy, others are calling a dangerous idea. At issue is whether or not applications for gun-carry permits should be kept confidential.

Getting a permit isn't only about learning the rules; a lot of personal information must be given up.

"You have to answer a lot of questions," said John Harris, executive director of the Tennessee Firearms Association. "Like, for example, 'How were you discharged from the military?' 'Have you ever been addicted to any kind of alcohol or other substances?' 'Have you ever had any psychiatric problems?' A lot of information is disclosed on the forms that really shouldn't be public."

More here.