Georgia Law Expands Gun-Carrying Rights
A recently-passed law in Georgia has expanded the rights of licensed firearm owners with carry permits. That is, gun owners are now allowed to have their weapons in more public places without the chance of criminal charges, thanks to a law recently signed by Governor Sonny Purdue.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that House Bill 89 was signed by the Governor on the last day of the legislative session that allowed for gubernatorial vetoes and signatures. The law, which will take effect on July 1st, allows those with gun-carry permits to carry their weapons in public and local parks, on public transportation and in restaurants that serve alcohol.
The law also allows permit-holders to leave firearms in any privately owned vehicle parked in a public lot.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, House Bill 89 has garnered mixed reviews from the citizens of Georgia. Perdue himself allegedly said that he expects the issue to end up argued by lawyers in court, but noted that the majority of the States permit guns in restaurants (37) and on public transportation (43).
Still, according to the Augusta Chronicle, some restaurant owners are less than thrilled about the new legislation.
Gun-toting patrons will not always stand out to servers and restaurant owners, especially if their weapons are concealed. And, sources indicate, it's unlikely that servers will ask if patrons are armed before taking their drink orders.
So how does this bit of legislation make sense?
Apparently, bus drivers are just as concerned as those in the hospitality industry. And the primary reason seems to be the same among those unhappy about the new law: the people who don't follow it.
That is, most of those who stand to be affected by the new legislation evidently aren't worried about those who follow current gun laws - people with permits for their guns and permits to carry them. It's others, those who haven't got permits of any kind, who could pose a threat to the general public.
The thinking goes like this: if you're not worried about the law enough to get a permit for a gun, you're probably not worried about a misdemeanor conviction for drinking while carrying that gun.
But, according to Public Broadcasting Atlanta, the Georgia Restaurant Association is offering its members options to avoid any problems the new law might cause. The head of the Association reportedly said that a sign prohibiting guns inside an establishment would trump state law, so those bar owners worried about the potential danger of drunk, gun-carrying patrons could take a preemptive strike at problems.
Whether or not the new law will be challenged in court - and whether it stands up to any challenges - remains to be seen. For updates on this and other controversial laws around the country, visit the articles section of Total Lawyers.
