CHEYENNE, Wyo. — While acknowledging that HB0172- Repeal gun free zones and preemption amendments was “about the legislature grabbing power,” Governor Mark Gordon still allowed the gun bill to go into law without his signature on Thursday, Feb. 27.
With the passing of the bill, teachers, volunteers and government officials will be allowed to carry concealed weapons in any K-12 school, university, government building, health and human services facility or college sporting event that does not serve alcohol.
In a letter to House Speaker Chip Neiman, the Governor reiterated his support for the repeal of gun-free zones in Wyoming. Gordon argued that the added legislation was never about “self-defense” or a common sense effort to extend carry rights, saying it was more about political maneuvering.
“Elections are impactful, and I recognize the overwhelming majority of this legislature opted to drop a political bomb,” Gordon wrote. “The final outcome of this legislation is not in doubt. It will become law.”
Gordon also emphasized in the letter that he would have preferred local governments to set their own gun free zone policies.
“States chafe at having the Federal Government tell us what we can and cannot do,” Gordon wrote. “So I understand why local governments would harbor that same attitude for an ‘all-knowing’ Cheyenne.”
Teton County School District (TCSD) Executive Director of Communications and District Services Charlotte Reynolds told Buckrail that while the district and many members of the community spoke against the bill, staff will update its policies to reflect the new law.
“The district will work to ensure all students and staff feel safe while at school and at school events and programs,” Reynolds said.
According to the Governor’s Office, the law goes into effect on July 1, 2025.
