• Repeals gun-free zones for legal concealed carriers

One of many bills passed by the 68th Wyoming Legislature that has the state’s school districts examining solutions is House Bill 172 which repeals so-called gun-free zones on school campuses. This bill became law without the signature of Governor Mark Gordon. The law goes into effect on July 1.

For Lincoln County School District No. 2 (LCSD), the big question at hand is, should there be requirements or policies for district employees who want to opt to conceal carry firearms while on district property. Those not employed by the district would not be held to these same policies should the board of trustees opt to pass them.

It is a complicated question which was the focus of a work session for board members, administration and the public on Wednesday May 14. Two different attorneys familiar with the legislation answered questions posed by the group and also gave their interpretations of what they described as “vague” areas in the bill’s construction. Some of their interpretations from the work session included the following:

• Those on campus still cannot open carry.

• If the board were to require training for employees, the concept was for 24 hours of initial training with 12 hours required annually.

• The lawyers noted that if an employee used a biometric box, it would need to be taken with them every time they left the room. The firearm cannot be left behind.

• Utah and Texas already have laws requiring no proof of training.

• An employee is considered as such while on campus regardless of why they are there.

• Crossing over into another district, the LCSD No. 2 employee would no longer need to abide by those district rules.

• A school bus is part of the property owned by the district.

• Any required training and the costs involved would be up to the individual.

• Enrolled students cannot carry firearms.

• It is considered a misdemeanor to prevent someone from lawfully carrying.

• There may not be a legal way to enforce a person carrying who is asked for proof of permit.

• As interpreted, the district cannot require a mental health requirement.

With so many variables and ideas, Superintendent Matt Erickson said that the work session was a good start but will lead to more discussions and likely another work session as well as input from the public.

“The purpose with the two different attorneys was to give us their interpretation of the law and options for our consideration,” Erickson said. “The board will take their time on this, we believe slower is faster in this case and we want to hear from the public as well. I would think our next step is another work session and weigh the pros and cons around this topic. In the near future I would anticipate that. Even thought the law goes into effect on July 1, we don’t have to be ready to roll by the start of the year.”

The next board meeting for LCSD No. 2 is scheduled for June 11.