Arizona House Passes Bill Allowing Some To Carry Weapons In Public Buildings

By Nick Blumberg
Published: Wednesday, March 12, 2014 - 4:56pm
(Photo courtesy of the Arizona State Legislature)
Rep. Lisa Otundo is opposed to the bill.

The Arizona House of Representatives has passed a bill that would allow people with a concealed weapon permit to take their guns into most public buildings and to public events.

The bill was sponsored by Republican Rep. Brenda Barton of Payson. It allows permit holders to carry a weapon at a public location unless there are metal detectors, security guards and gun lockers. Barton said it is a matter of Second Amendment Rights.

But Democratic Representative Lisa Otondo of Yuma said she attends lots of public events held in rural areas of her district.

"It could be a rodeo, it could be the hospice barbecue cook-off, they're family events," Otondo said. "We have local security that monitors the events. And I know the landowners do not want you bringing your guns."

The bill was amended to exclude educational institutions and places that have been granted a liquor license. It now heads to the Senate, though Gov. Brewer vetoed a similar bill last year.