I was looking at the Reading, MA PD's website today and I saw something interesting regarding the licensing process...
Link to licensing page
Is this something new? I haven't seen a mental health check mentioned before and I certainly didn't go through one when I got my license.
How Does the Process Work?
In order to apply for a license to carry, FID card or mace permit you must fill out the above application completely, honestly, and accurately and drop it off at the station marked to the attention of "Firearms Licensing Officer." Within several weeks you will be contacted to arrange for an appointment to come in and have your photographs and prints taken as well as have a final application uploaded into the state's MIRCS licensing system. Once uploaded into the MIRCS system a background check is completed which consists of a fingerprint record check conducted by the State Police and the FBI, a mental health check conducted by DMH, and a suitability and criminal records check conducted by the Reading Police Department. Based on the findings, applicants are either denied or approved and are formally notified of the outcome by mail. At the present time, processing from when you come in for your appointment to when you physically receive your license or your denial letter is taking about 5 months. As such, we strongly reccomend all renewals schedule an appointment 6 months in advance of their current expiration date.
Link to licensing page
Is this something new? I haven't seen a mental health check mentioned before and I certainly didn't go through one when I got my license.