ATLANTA — A bill that would allow concealed weapons in bars and government buildings is one step closer to becoming law.
The controversial gun bill passed a crucial state House committee Thursday. That set the stage for some heated debate on the issue next week.
"It's about personal safety," state Sen. Barry Loudermilk told Channel 2 political reporter Lori Geary.
Loudermilk, who sponsored the bill, said the only three places where concealed weapons would continue to be off-limits are courthouses, mental hospitals, nuclear facilities and churches. But licensed gun owners would be allowed to carry their weapons in government buildings, including the state Capitol. That worries some lawmakers.
"The only person I want to see armed around here in the Capitol is the state patrol," state Rep. Gloria Frazier said.
Loudermilk said the bill was inspired by one of his young legislative aides who sometimes had to walk to her car alone late at night.
"She would have liked to be able to carry a gun to protect herself from the parking lot for three or four blocks, which you know this area can be very dangerous at night," he said.
Loudermilk said opponents should have greater fears than licensed gun owners.
"It's not the licensed gun owners you should be afraid of. It's the thugs that have the guns out there that know that you don't," he said.
Frazier spoke against the bill in committee.
"We have too many gun bills and we're not focusing more on public safety," she said.
The issue is expected on the floor of the house next week.
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