Arizonans may soon be able to carry guns into public buildings. It was a close vote by the Senate Government Committee, 4 to 3 , and the bill will now go to the full senate for a vote.
SB 1243 would allow permit holders to carry their guns into some public buildings. It would also require operators of public establishments to allow permit-holders to carry their firearms, unless the business employs security guards and has metal detectors at entrances. However, courtrooms, federal buildings, high schools and universities are exempt from it.
Meanwhile, Republicans have repeatedly pushed the proposal in recent years. In fact, the bill was introduced by Republican senator John Kavanagh, who says no harm can come from allowing permit holders to carry weapons.
Democrats, however, say the costs to cities would be unacceptable. The full senate vote may come as soon as next week.
