Time to Modify That Map Again!.
Kansas has joined the “Shall-issue” concealed-carry team. Both houses of the state legislature overturned Governor Kathleen Sebelius’ veto. That makes Kansas the 37th “Shall-issue” state (Vermont has no restriction on concealed-carry. Alaska is “shall-issue,” if you want a permit for reciprocity with other states. Otherwise, you can carry concealed in Alaska without a permit.) Eight other states are “may-issue” (which generally means “only if you’re well-connected”.)
Note that the argument was the same-old, same-old:
A microcosm of the debate played out between Clark Zeit, of Olathe, and his mother, Carolyn Zeit, of Prairie Village, when they were asked about what the Legislature did.
“They say it will make it more difficult for police to do their job. But I think there are enough safeguards,” the son said.
The mother said: “I’m totally against it. I think too many people will have guns and you won’t be safe anywhere.”
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The Kansas Sheriffs’ Association remained neutral because its members were divided. But its president, Stafford County Sheriff Jeff Parr, said such a law bothers him.
“I feel that with more people able to conceal weapons we’re going to have problems with guns,” he said. “Instead of getting into a fist fight, if they have a gun, they are going to pull a gun instead of fighting.”
Although that hasn’t been the case in ANY state that has passed “shall-issue.” And, as I pointed out – in detail – before “more guns” DOES NOT equal “more crime.” What concealed-carry does is allow people to protect themselves and others:
Democrat, Rep. L. Candy Ruff, of Leavenworth, was the bill’s chief champion.
“People now have the right to defend themselves if they want to,” said Ruff, adding she doesn’t plan to get a concealed gun permit.
“I’ve never had a desire to carry a concealed gun,” she said. “I pushed it because two rape victims in my district asked me to.”
That’s called “serving your constituents.”
But, of course, there’s always the “YOU’LL PUT YOUR EYE OUT!” crowd:
“My concern is people thinking they are safe because they are packing a gun,” said Yonally, R-Overland Park. “It’s only going to become a weapon that can be used against them.”
(*SIGH*) Anyway, here’s the map, updated just yesterday!
And perhaps later, Nebraska!