This is in response to Al Castagna’s letter, “Who decides who gets to carry?” (April 20).

Unlike many states that have very restrictive firearms laws, no reason is necessary for a citizen of Maine to have a concealed-carry permit. The state of Maine is a “shall issue” state, which simply means that as long as someone is not considered a “prohibited person,” a request for a concealed-carry permit will be granted.

In cities or towns that have their own police force, the chief of police can make the decision. In most other areas, the Maine State Police is the issuing authority.

I agree that “carrying a firearm is a serious responsibility,” and one not to be taken lightly. One requirement for a concealed-carry permit is that the applicant has successfully completed a handgun training and safety course. Another is a comprehensive background check — criminal and mental health.

Castagna is absolutely correct in his statement, “Maine, when compared with most other states, is relatively violent crime free.” I wonder why that is? One reason is quite clear: citizens of Maine are allowed to buy, possess and carry a firearm, without the government requiring a reason to do so.

That is otherwise known as the freedom to exercise one’s Second Amendment rights.

Bottom line — a high number of law-abiding citizens owning and carrying firearms equals a lower crime rate.

Think of it from a criminal’s perspective: two potential victims, one possibly armed, the other definitely isn’t. That is an easy choice.

Kenney Russell, Turner