Matthew Podowitz:  
 He was licensed to carry a firearm in Russia.  The Russian process involved psychiatric evaluation, and police training.  The process took roughly 6 months.  The Russian provisional constitution did not allow them to prevent people from having firearms, however Russian officials decided to make the process as difficult as possible for people to carry weapons there.  It is possible that some in this country, and even this state are suggesting changes to our process that it would have the effect of preventing many from carrying firearms.
Questions/Comments:  
Sen. Balfour:  Shouldn’t training reduce the incident of accidents or at least make a shooter better prepared for shooting in a stressful situation such as self defense on MARTA?
Mr. Podowitz:  Training does not necessarily make one a better shooter.  

Jeff Huong:  
If the imposition of a training requirement is introduced, the cost may become too burdensome for many citizens.  The least expensive course he is aware of costs $75.  This requirement would require citizens to give up time as well as money.  
Questions/Comments:  
Sen. Rogers:  Does training reduce crimes committed by firearms licensees?
Mr. Huong: According to “more guns less crime” the evidence does not support reduced crime.  

Doug King:  
He opposes mandatory training.  You cannot legislate common sense.  Some citizens may benefit from training, some will not.  Currently, those who want training get it.  Some training includes a study of the relevant laws.  In order to teach laws accurately, attorneys need to be the instructors.  State certification of instructors increases cost and adds levels to the process of license acquisition.  

Scott Vandiver:  
Firearms accidents are caused by ignorance and carelessness.  People either are unaware of how to handle a firearm, or they do not apply their knowledge.  Training could improve knowledge and skill.  Quality training is important in teaching people how to safely and effectively use a firearm.  Properly trained individuals can operate most firearms safely and accurately.  Most firearms owners do not have the skills to shoot properly.  A qualified instructor is the best way for a shooter to learn how to operate a firearm safely.  Physical, Mental, and Legal are all perspectives which must be taught to students.  If there is to be a training requirement then it must require quality and thorough training.  Proper training will not be reflected in statistics because proper training includes learning to avoid confrontation.  
Questions/Comments:  
Sen. Rogers:  Requests data to show that training actually increases safety.  Also, should people be required to undergo training simply to own or to carry?
Mr. Vandiver:   people should undergo training to carry.  
Sen. Smith:  Does the NRA want people to undergo training?
Mr. Vandiver:   will not speak for NRA, but in his opinion the NRA would prefer nationwide reciprocal carry.  The only training that is nationally recognized is the NRA training.  
Mr. King:   There are ways to get reciprocal permits without Georgia changing what makes it different.  

Quoted:
Just for clarification, Florida requires such training for their license, the Georgia GFL does not.

Notes from the senate study comittee on training