The Pennsylvania Instant Check System (PICS) is a background check tool used by the Pennsylvania State Police to verify the eligibility of individuals looking to purchase firearms. It was launched in 1998 by Pennsylvania’s Firearms Division and aligns with the laws set by the Uniform Firearms Act (UFA) regarding the license to carry and restrictions on carrying a concealed firearm. When a buyer attempts to purchase a firearm, the licensed dealer contacts the PICS system. They screen applicants against a database of mental health records, criminal charges, and other relevant criteria. This system serves as a protective measure to make sure firearms are sold only to people who legally qualify to own them.
PICS’ Integration with NICS for Enhanced Security
The PICS system works with the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), a federal system managed by the FBI, to ensure a comprehensive background screening process for potential buyers. While NICS focuses on federal disqualifications for ownership, PICS incorporates criteria based on Pennsylvania law, such as protection from abuse orders and juvenile records. This collaboration enhances the effectiveness of background screenings, ensuring that individuals who are prohibited from owning firearms by state and federal law are identified and prevented from making a purchase.
Key Information for PICS Background Checks
The Pennsylvania State Police runs a thorough evaluation of each applicant going through PICS. This process ensures that firearms are only purchased by individuals who meet the legal criteria for ownership. The key information collected through the background check includes:
- Buyer information including full name and driver’s license number
- Criminal history such as felonies, misdemeanor charges, or existing retraining orders
- Mental health records
- Any history of drug abuse
This information is cross-referenced against NICS databases to ensure an accurate and complete assessment of each applicant’s eligibility to purchase and carry firearms. This reinforces Pennsylvania’s commitment to responsible gun ownership and public safety.
PICS Approvals & Denials
After completion of the background check, applicants face one of two outcomes: approval or denial.
- Approvals: The applicant has passed the background check and meets all legal criteria for firearm ownership in Pennsylvania. The transaction can then proceed, enabling the lawful purchase of the firearm.
- Denials: This occurs when the background check uncovers disqualifying factors such as a criminal offense, a history of mental health issues, or other legal restrictions.
Challenging a PICS Denial
PICS has a structured challenge process for those who believe their denial was due to an error or misunderstanding. Applicants should take the following steps to challenge a denial:
- Initiate the Challenge: To contest a denial, submit a PICS Challenge Form (SP4-197) to the PICS Challenges Section. This must be done within 30 days following the denial notification.
- Review Process: PICS reviews the challenge and then reassesses the application to see if there are valid reasons for denial. This review process includes a detailed examination of the applicant’s information and any additional information that was provided.
- Resolution: The initial denial can be overturned if it’s discovered that the denial was based on inaccurate information. This allows the applicant to proceed with the firearm purchase.
The challenge process makes sure that every individual has the opportunity to address and correct issues leading to a denial. It’s an essential component of the PICS framework, protecting public safety and individual rights in Pennsylvania.
Frequently Asked Questions
The firearm dealer must pay a $2 fee for each background check request. There is also a $3 surcharge when a “firearm subject to tax” is purchased. The $19 cost for a carry permit is paid to the sheriff’s office, but only $1 of that goes to the Pennsylvania State Police.
Most background checks are completed within minutes, allowing for immediate feedback on the eligibility of the firearm purchase.
If you receive a PICS denial notification, it will always be investigated, so it’s important to take action and complete the challenge form immediately. Those in possession of a firearm when they were denied could be accused of committing a crime and face criminal charges.
The challenge process determines if the denial should be overturned based on additional information provided by the applicant. The process varies in length but the goal is to be as prompt as possible. Challenges should be resolved within 60 days.