Why, I suppose, depends on your point of view. Some might say that the state wants to ensure that those citizens who carry have at least a minimum level of training in firearm safety and the laws relevant to using deadly force. Others might say that it is the state putting up another roadblock in front of those who simply wish to pursue their right to keep and bear arms, which is particularly burdensome to those of modest means. I say that it's the government, and they do it because they can. The bright side, if there is one, is that your permit will be good in most other states that also require taking a class.