Iowa House Bill HSB173

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the transferring, carrying, transportation, and possession of weapons by certain persons and in certain locations, and including effective date provisions.(See HF 654.)

Impact

HSB173 presents significant changes to existing state laws governing firearms in schools and workplaces. It allows authorized personnel, including drivers of school vehicles or retired peace officers in good standing, to carry firearms on school grounds under specific circumstances. Additionally, the bill restricts educational institutions from enacting policies that would prevent individuals from bringing firearms in vehicles onto campus, thus promoting greater acceptance of firearms in previously restricted areas.

Summary

House Study Bill 173 (HSB173) addresses the transferring, carrying, transportation, and possession of weapons in various contexts, particularly focusing on employer policies regarding firearms and their presence on school properties. The bill articulates that certain prohibitions against introducing contraband into correctional facilities do not apply to lawful possession of firearms when kept inside locked vehicles in publicly accessible parking areas. It outlines the conditions under which employers cannot prohibit employees from carrying firearms in their personal vehicles at work, provided those firearms remain out of sight.

Contention

The bill has faced notable contention, particularly regarding concerns over safety and local government authority. Critics argue that permitting firearms on school grounds, even under specified conditions, could increase risks for students and staff. Conversely, proponents claim that empowering individuals to carry firearms could enhance personal safety and provide necessary protection in schools and workplaces. These debates highlight the ongoing tension between public safety considerations and Second Amendment rights within the legislative framework.