The Gillette City Council has taken a significant step by voting 5-2 to advance an ordinance that bans open carry in city buildings, aligning local regulations with Wyoming’s recently enacted House Bill 172. This legislation, known as the Wyoming Repeal Gun Free Zones Act, allows concealed carry on public property while leaving the decision on open carry restrictions to individual communities.
City Attorney Sean Brown highlighted the ordinance’s necessity to maintain compliance with state law set to take effect in July. The council’s decision stems from concerns about safety and intimidation among city staff and visitors, as an informal survey found that 80% of staff felt uneasy about open carry in their work environment. As the council prepares for further discussions and public input, the implications of this ban may spark continued debate about Second Amendment rights in the region.
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