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House approves provisional concealed-carry permits for 18'to'20-year-olds (HB198) after heated debate
Summary
The House passed HB198 to create a provisional concealed-carry permit for 18'to'20-year-olds that expires at 21. Supporters cited campus self-defense and Second Amendment rights; opponents cited studies and developmental concerns. The bill passed 63–12.
The Utah House approved House Bill 198 to create a provisional concealed-carry permit for adults aged 18 to 20 that automatically expires when the holder turns 21.
Representative Lisonbee, sponsor of the bill, said the permit would allow 18'to'20-year-olds who are legal adults to carry concealed firearms for self-defense, particularly on campuses that prohibit open carry. She cited studies and advocates who argued that weapon access can improve victims' odds of escaping sexual assault and emphasized training and permit requirements.
Opponents, including several members with teaching or campus-safety backgrounds, argued the data does not clearly support the proposal and expressed concerns about impulsivity and decision-making capacity among younger adults. Representative Kwan and others, speaking as a college professor and psychologist, said the age group still shows developmental immaturity that could increase risk in crisis situations.
Debate included references to external studies and a committee hearing in which an 18-year-old testified. Representative Kolman and other supporters noted Second Amendment arguments and victims' advocates who favor self-defense options. After a motion to end debate and continued floor discussion, the House passed HB198 by a recorded vote of 63 yes, 12 no. The bill will be transmitted to the Senate.
