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Senate Allows Guns in National Parks

by Amy Judd | May 16, 2009 at 09:55 am

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The Senate backed a decision on Thursday to allow people to carry loaded guns in national parks and wildlife refuges.

Senator Tom Coburn from Oklahoma put forth the measure, saying that it was the right of citizens to carry weapons in parks and wildlife refuges if they are allowed by federal and state law.

''If an American citizen has a right to carry a firearm in their state, it makes no sense to treat them like a criminal if they pass through a national park while in possession of a firearm,'' Coburn said.

The bill had a lot of support from Democrats and Republicans, and was approved 67-29.
However, gun control groups, park rangers and retirees opposed the bill and it had been previously blocked in March by a federal judge.

''This amendment is much more radical than the regulation promulgated by the Bush administration,'' said Bryan Faehner, associate director of the National Parks Conservation Association, an advocacy group that opposes guns in parks.

If it does become a law, it could put many at risk, including animals that occupy these spaces. The vote has been looked upon as reckless by some.

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JeffHuang

at 16:58 on May 16th, 2009

Well even if it is their right as citizens to carry weapons in parks and wildlife refuges... it doesnt make sense. Why would anyone need to carry loaded weapons there.