Wyoming House of Representatives recently passed a bill, HB 172, sponsored by Rep. Jeremy Haroldson, that would eliminate gun-free zones in the state. The bill would allow concealed carry of firearms in areas where it’s historically been restricted, such as state-run buildings and public schools. Supporters argue that this measure is necessary to protect against mass shootings and is a matter of Second Amendment rights.
However, critics point to a study showing removing gun-free zones doesn’t deter shooters and argue that the bill interferes with local government control. Despite Governor Mark Gordon vetoing a similar bill last year due to concerns about local control, the current bill has passed the House and is headed to the Senate for further consideration.
The debate around the bill also includes discussions about the role of local government in making these decisions, with some arguing that local officials should have the authority to determine policies related to firearms. The bill’s passage comes as the State Building Commission has also proposed removing gun-free zones in the Capitol building, but not in all areas. If the bill passes the Senate, it will go to the governor for approval. This issue is being covered by Wyoming Public Media and Jackson Hole Community Radio, with support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
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