The bill would amend the handgun licensure Act to authorize the Department of State, instead of concealed weapon licensing boards, to issue licenses to carry a concealed pistol; establish license application requirements, including a requirement that an applicant be at least 21 years old; require the Department to issue a license if the requirements were met; set a $55 application fee and a $5 assessment fee; require the Department to issue or deny a license within 45 days after the application was submitted; allow the appeal of license denials to an administrative judge; require the destruction of applicants' fingerprints; require an applicant to demonstrate knowledge or training in the safe use and handling of a pistol; provide that a license would be valid for five years; allow a person to file an objection to a license issuance; create the "Concealed Weapon Enforcement Fund"; require local police departments, county sheriffs, county clerks, and the Department to provide concealed weapon application kits to individuals wishing to apply for a license; require the Department to create and maintain a computerized database of applicants, and report annually to the Legislature; impose penalties for violations pertaining to the carrying of concealed pistols; provide for licensing exemptions; and repeal provisions creating concealed weapon licensing boards and establishing licensing requirements and procedures. The bill would take effect January 1, 2000.