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Council adopts policy allowing concealed carry by eligible city employees with restrictions; two council members dissent

5133642 · July 2, 2025

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Summary

Following state law changes the council adopted a city policy that prohibits open carry by employees in city facilities except where job duties require it and allows concealed carry by eligible employees under secure‑storage and conduct rules; the motion passed 5–2 with Vice Mayor Garner and Council member Alexander opposed.

The Rawlins City Council adopted a policy on July 1 governing open and concealed carrying of firearms by city employees during work hours to reflect changes in state law.

City attorneys briefed the council on House Bill 172 (now codified at the state level) and explained that the statute removed prior local restrictions on carrying firearms in many public spaces. The city’s policy mirrors the statutory framework: open carry by employees in city facilities is generally prohibited except when required by job duties (for example, sworn law enforcement), while concealed carry is permitted only for employees legally authorized to possess a concealed weapon under state law.

The policy requires firearms to be carried concealed or stored in statutorily authorized secure containers while on city premises. It includes reporting and disciplinary language: violations may result in disciplinary action under personnel policies; the policy also clarifies that carrying a firearm is a personal choice outside the scope of employment except for authorized officers. The resolution directs staff to circulate an employee acknowledgment form and to ensure the policy’s provisions take precedence where personnel policies are inconsistent.

After discussion the motion to adopt the policy passed in an online roll call with five yays and two nays; Vice Mayor Garner and Council member Alexander registered the dissent. City attorneys and LGLP (local government liability partner referenced in the discussion) were consulted and advised the council about liability and compliance matters.