Permits place of worship to establish security plan to select one person to carry handgun during religious services.
Impact
If enacted, the bill would alter existing state laws concerning the carrying of firearms by empowering places of worship to appoint a responsible individual to carry a handgun for the protection of attendees. It mandates that this individual undergo a firearms training course held by specified organizations and clarifies that they can serve in either a voluntary role or for compensation. The modification aims to prevent potential attacks at religious gatherings, suggesting that worship services often attract large gatherings that could be vulnerable without dedicated security measures in place.
Summary
Senate Bill S681 permits the governing body of a recognized place of worship to establish a security program. This program would allow one designated individual to carry a handgun during religious services held on the premises. The application of this bill is aimed at increasing safety measures in light of recent violent incidents at houses of worship, particularly citing tragic mass shootings as influential factors in its proposal. The bill defines 'place of worship' broadly to include churches, mosques, synagogues, and other similar establishments registered as non-profits under the federal Internal Revenue Code.
Contention
The bill has sparked debate on its implications for both public safety and the proliferation of firearms in sensitive environments. Supporters argue it could enhance security and protect congregants, while opponents question the sufficiency of safety training and the potential for firearms within sacred spaces to create an uneasy atmosphere. Furthermore, there are broader concerns regarding the normalization of weapons in everyday situations, particularly at gatherings meant for peace and worship.
Authorizes Class Three special law enforcement officers to provide security in places of religious worship; requires nonpublic security aid be used for Class Three officers upon request of nonpublic school.
Prohibits people from engaging in protests outside a place of religious worship; establishes that protests must be a minimum of twenty-five feet away from a place of religious worship.
Authorizes Class Three special law enforcement officers to provide security in places of religious worship; makes certain clarifications concerning their use in nonpublic schools.
Relates to certain crimes of interference with access to places of religious worship; expands interference to include groups of two or more people demonstrating or preparing to demonstrate one hundred feet outside of places of religious worship.
Concerning Civil Immunity For A Church Or Other Place Of Worship; And To Provide Civil Immunity For Volunteer Security Personnel In A Church Or Other Place Of Worship.
Relates to certain crimes of interference with access to places of religious worship; expands interference to include groups of two or more people demonstrating or preparing to demonstrate one hundred feet outside of places of religious worship.