Arizona: "House committee eases rules on carrying guns in restaurants"

[cuchulainn]

from the Tucson Citizen

http://www.tucsoncitizen.com/local/2_25_03xgr_guns.html

House committee eases rules on carrying guns in restaurants

The Associated Press
Feb. 25, 2003
PHOENIX - Gun-rights advocates prevailed over business groups as a House committee narrowly voted to allow people to carry guns into restaurants that sell alcohol unless the restaurant posts a sign prohibiting it.
State law prohibits a person from having a gun at restaurants and bars, but the bill (HB2319) approved by the Commerce and Military Affairs Committee yesterday would narrow the ban to just bars.
During testimony last week, lobbyists for industry groups said the bill would cause liability problems for restaurant owners and subject them to pressure to allow guns.
A National Rifle Association lobbyist said the current law makes law-abiding people carrying guns criminals if they don't realize a restaurant sells alcohol.
The bill was approved 6-5.
"Guns and alcohol don't mix," said Rep. Robert Meza, a Phoenix Democrat who voted against the bill.
Rep. Phil Hanson, R-Peoria, said he already carries a gun into restaurants when going out to dinner. "I don't want to be a victim."
Rep. Michele Reagan, R-Scottsdale, voted "present" - neither for nor against the bill. "I'm a big supporter of the NRA, but I always consider the interests of small business," she said.

Copyright © 2003 Tucson Citizen

 

[El Tejon]

Hooray for GWR! Keep at them.

 

[Bottom Gun]

This is certainly a step in the right direction.

Does anyone know when this will become effective?

 

[El Tejon]

Bottom, I believe it just passed out of committee then on to the full chamber, then senate, then GWR's guv. Right?

 

[.45Ruger]

Getting this passed would be great. In Arizona, the stolen car capital of the country one doesn't want to leave a gun inyour car for some thief to get it. So as it stands now I either have to go unarmed for the entire night or break the law. I don't like any of those options. I think the odds of of our Comrade govonor signing this are slim.