Senate Judiciary advances bill to repeal many gun-free zones; amendments add student and storage limits

The Senate Judiciary Committee on Monday voted to advance House Bill 172, a bill to repeal specified gun‑free zone restrictions on public property and to allow certain concealed carry in state public spaces and schools, after receiving more than two hours of public comment and adopting a series of amendments.

The committee voted 5‑0 on a roll call to pass the bill with amendments. Senator Kolb moved the bill; Senators Crago, Crum, Hicks, Cole and Chairman Olsen recorded aye votes when the clerk called the roll. The measure will move to the Senate floor with the committee’s changes.

Why it matters: HB 172 would change where people with concealed‑carry permits may carry on public property funded by taxpayers, including some government buildings and K–12 school facilities. Supporters said allowing concealed carry in those places gives law‑abiding permit holders a chance to stop attacks when law enforcement cannot arrive immediately. Opponents said the change increases risks for students and school staff, raises costs for districts to secure storage and facilities, and removes local control over school safety decisions.

Committee action and key amendments - The committee adopted an amendment by Senator Crago that prohibits any person authorized to carry a concealed weapon under the statute from carrying a concealed firearm into any elementary or secondary school facility if the person is enrolled as a student at any elementary or secondary school. The language mirrors a provision from last year’s draft and is intended to keep currently enrolled K–12 students from carrying into their own schools. - Senators adopted clarifying language (sponsored by…