Concealed carry in church on today's agenda

HB1237 will be on the House floor today for a vote. The bill removes churches and other places of worship from the list of prohibited places where a licensee can carry a concealed handgun. Former Governor Jim Guy Tucker weighs in by e-mail:

The original “concealed carry” law was passed during my administration as governor, and with my signature. The bill was carefully crafted by its sponsor, Senator Walters, to avoid exactly the kinds of intrusion – and risks – raised by HB1237. Those who want to own and carry firearms have rights – but so do those who do not. This bill intrudes on one of our most sacred rights – the right to worship freely without fear.

Under HB1237 the state is literally ordering every church in Arkansas to allow a total stranger with a gun on his hip to enter your church and sit by your family. For the state to force this upon churches, or church members, is an intolerable intrusion.

Kind Regards,

Jim Guy

Update: The bill was passed over, and and amendment is in the works.