The process of obtaining a ccw permit in the state of California is difficult at best. Many law abiding citizens go through the application process, only to be denied because their reasoning for wanting a permit is deemed insufficient. If a citizen can pass a background check to purchase a firearm,  He/she should be able to obtain a ccw permit for self defense.  Its not just criminals and thugs our communities face anymore. We now face an even greater threat, in the form of terrorism. If California would become a shall issue state, good citizens would be able to protect themselves, if they so choose. No longer would we be helpless when faced with grave danger. Law enforcement would also gain the extra few seconds that is sometimes needed to respond to a call and help to save lives. Saving lives after all, is what ccw issuance is intended for.