Arrr! Indiana be makin' way fer more armed officials at th' Capitol. Aye, let's hope they be knowin' how t' use 'em!
2024-03-07
Arr matey, word be spreadin' that four more scallywags in Indiana be allowed to tote pistols at the Capitol! Aye, 'tis a fine day for democracy when ye can defend yerself with a trusty weapon by yer side. Fair winds and smooth sailin' to ye, me hearties!
Arrr, in the land of Indiana, four mighty elected officials be granted the right to carry their trusty handguns in the state Capitol, me hearties! The attorney general and secretary of state be among those allowed to bear arms, thanks to a bill that be revived by lawmakers and sent to the Republican governor, Eric Holcomb, says I!The General Assembly and their crew already have the privilege to brandish their pistols in the Capitol and on the grounds. This new decree be doin' away with the requirement for a valid Indiana license for these lawmakers and their loyal staff.But hold on to yer hats, mates! The original proposal on this matter was scuppered last month, but those crafty lawmakers have brought it back by tacking it onto another bill in the final days of the session.However, this new version be not granting the same rights to the staff members of these elected officials, as was first suggested. The governor's office be keepin' mum about his support for the measure.The final compromise be allowin' the state attorney general, secretary of state, treasurer, and comptroller to carry their pistols, as long as they be not forbidden by state or federal law. This provision be added to House Bill 1084, which also be prohibitin' any government from keepin' a list of privately owned firearms or their owners.This measure be passin' the state Senate in a 39-9 vote, with the Democratic crew in opposition. Seems there be some disagreement about repealin' the license requirement for the General Assembly and their staff to carry on the Capitol grounds.Gun-totin' be allowed in the statehouses of 21 states, but Indiana be doin' away with a permit requirement to carry a handgun in public in 2022. The state treasurer be hopin' to continue the conversation next year to include the staff of statewide officers in this right."The 2nd Amendment Rights of Hoosiers shouldn’t end at the steps of the Statehouse," says Treasurer Daniel Elliott in a written decree. Metal detectors be standin' guard at public entrances on the Capitol grounds, but state employees with the proper badge can swagger in without bein' checked.