IDAHO, USA — A bill that would allow Idaho school employees who have an enhanced concealed carry license to carry guns is heading to the state House of Representatives for a full vote.
House Bill 415 passed the House State Affairs Committee on Wednesday and will now go to the House floor. If passed, the bill would allow school teachers, staff and volunteers to have a gun on school property. Despite a vote of approval from House Republicans, Democrats showed stark opposition to the proposed bill.
Currently, individual school districts in Idaho can and do regulate whether teachers can carry firearms while at school.
The bill states school employees who decide to carry a concealed weapon on school property must have an enhanced concealed carry license and follow the laws regulating the proper use. Idahoans must take an eight-hour course on state firearm laws and practice shooting with at least 98 rounds in order to get an enhanced license, according to Idaho code.
It also has civil protections for those who choose to carry, stating that if a teacher fails to protect a child in an active shooter situation, the child's family cannot sue the teacher.
Lobbyists with the National Rifle Association (NRA) have spoken out in support of the bill, saying it would only apply to someone who is contracted. However, Democrats argue the bill doesn't make the distinction.
The bill will now go to the House floor for a full vote.
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