YUMA, Ariz. – Arizona Senate Bill 1257 would allow concealed carry permit holders to take their weapons into some public buildings.
Senator John Kavanagh of Fountain Hills, who sponsors the bill says, the measure gives municipalities a choice to tighten security or allow concealed carry firearms.
“I think it’s a great idea. I have a carry concealed weapon myself and I don’t see anything wrong with it. It’s a normal thing to me,” said Yuma resident Tim Harmon.
If passed it would require public establishments such as libraries and city halls to allow permit holders to carry their firearms, however it would exclude federal buildings, high schools, universities and court rooms. It could also establish security guards and metal detectors at the facility.
Some residents we talked to say they would be fearful of what could happen if guns were allowed in places like city hall or a library.
“There are some people that are going to get upset at some of the public officials. There probably going to go in there some of these nut balls try to go in there and shoot the place up,” said winter resident Michael Palmatier.
Former Governor Jan Brewer vetoed the measure three times. A similar measure died last session.
The senate voted with 18 in favor and 12 against the bill. It’s now set to pass with amendments.