The University of Wyoming and the State Building Commission are considering new policies regarding firearms, and it can be hard to keep track of everything. Here’s what you need to know about what’s being proposed, upcoming meetings, and how to provide your input.
At the Wyoming Capitol:
The State Building Commission, which includes Wyoming’s top officials, moved forward in October with plans to allow firearms in certain areas of the Capitol. Right now, concealed carry is banned throughout the Capitol. The new proposal would remove this ban for parts of the Capitol managed by the commission. During the legislative session, the Legislature has control over most of the Capitol.
Earlier proposals only allowed visitors with concealed carry permits to bring firearms into the Capitol. The plan has since been expanded to include “constitutional carry,” which allows people to carry firearms as permitted by the Second Amendment, without needing any special permit.
“Constitutional carry” means people can carry a concealed firearm as long as they meet certain criteria, like being over 21, not having a history of mental illness or substance abuse, and being able to safely handle a firearm.
An online survey showed that 87% of respondents opposed allowing guns in the Capitol. The proposed changes can be found online, and public comments can be submitted until December 13.
At the University of Wyoming:
Currently, firearms are not allowed on the University of Wyoming campus, except for law enforcement and those with special permission. Next week, the UW Board of Trustees will vote on whether to allow students, staff, faculty, and the public with a concealed carry permit to bring guns on campus, as long as they inform the UW Police Department every year.
Those carrying firearms would need to show their permit and ID when asked by police. Some areas of campus, such as law enforcement facilities and athletic events, would still be off-limits.
Earlier, a survey showed that 64.4% of respondents wanted to keep the current gun policy. The university will hold a town hall meeting on Monday at 12:30 PM in the Wyoming Union, which can be attended in person or virtually. Questions can be submitted ahead of time.
The Board of Trustees will vote on the policy Thursday at 11:45 AM, with public comment starting at 11:15 AM.