TWIN FALLS, Idaho – The number of people who have requested or received permits to carry concealed weapons has increased dramatically in south-central Idaho.

The number of concealed weapons permits issued in the county has jumped more than 50 percent from 286 in 2008 to 433 in 2009. The permit load also has increased in the three surrounding counties.

Officials have various theories on the reasons for the increase.

Twin Falls County Sheriff Tom Carter said he has heard a lot of panic from gun owners who fear their rights will be eroded in the current U.S. Congress. That could explain the surge in concealed weapons permits between 2008 and 2009, the years President Barack Obama was elected and took office, he said.

“The most dramatic increase had to do with President Obama,” Carter said. “People thought he was going to take their guns.”

Jerome County reported 130 permit applications in 2009, up from 30 in 2005. In Cassia County, 185 concealed weapons permits were issued last year, up from 12 five years ago.

Gooding County reported 127 new permits in 2009, up from 34 in 2005.

While the numbers show an increase, they do not differentiate between residents and out-of-state residents who’ve obtained or sought permits. Idaho and many other states allow nonresidents to obtain state concealed weapons permits.

Those found carrying a concealed weapon in Idaho without a permit face a misdemeanor charge punishable by up to six months in county jail and up to a $500 fine, according to Idaho state code.