Wyoming Gun Law Changes Advance

The legislation heading to Governor Mark Gordon's desk is House Bill 172, which seeks to repeal most "gun-free" zones in the state. This would permit concealed carry in many government buildings, at the University of Wyoming and community colleges, and on public school property for those with a concealed firearm permit. Governor Gordon has allowed the bill to become law without his signature, expressing strong reservations. He described the move as a "legislative power grab" that overrides local control, a principle he previously cited when vetoing a similar bill. Gordon argued that the legislature, not local entities, will now exclusively determine where guns are permitted. The bill effectively transfers authority from local school boards, municipalities, and the University of Wyoming to the state legislature regarding firearm regulations. Proponents argued the measure restores Second Amendment rights that shouldn't be subject to local control. The passage of the bill follows a 2017 law that gave individual school districts the option to arm employees, an authority that only a handful of districts have utilized. Supporters of the new bill said it was necessary because local entities were not acting on their own to allow concealed carry for self-defense. Opponents, including some educational and municipal groups, raised concerns about public safety and the removal of local decision-making power. Student groups also protested the legislation. The law does not change regulations around the open carrying of firearms, and private property owners retain the right to prohibit guns. Since 2021, Wyoming has allowed permitless concealed carry for legal U.S. residents 21 and older who can lawfully possess a firearm. The state's Division of Criminal Investigation reports there are currently over 30,000 active concealed firearm permit holders in Wyoming. Obtaining a permit may still be desirable for residents who wish to carry in other states that have reciprocity with Wyoming.