PIERRE, S.D. (AP) – A South Dakota bill to allow people with enhanced concealed carry permits to bring guns into the state Capitol is headed to the House floor.
The House State Affairs Committee voted 8-4 Wednesday to endorse the legislation. It has already passed the Senate.
Republican Sen. Jim Stalzer, the sponsor, says other states haven’t had issues with allowing guns in their Capitol buildings.
No members of the public testified against the bill. House Minority Leader Jamie Smith opposed the measure, saying he supports the Capitol’s current safety system.
Stalzer’s bill would require notifying security before carrying in the Capitol. It wouldn’t extend to the Supreme Court chamber or access-controlled private offices.
Last year, 1,615 enhanced permits were issued. They come with requirements that include completing a training course.
