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Arkansas House Supports Concealed Firearms In Polling Places

Concealed firearms would be allowed into certain polling places under a bill endorsed by the Arkansas House.

Lawmakers voted 73-17 Monday to advance the proposal to the Senate. It would allow people with concealed carry licenses to bring their guns on election day into places where firearms are otherwise allowed, such as certain churches or stores. Guns would still be barred from polling places at courthouses or schools.

Democratic Rep. Jeff Wardlaw of Warren says he proposed the bill because a constituent asked him to. Other proponents say guns won't make voters feel less safe.

Opponents questioned the need for the bill and cited a lack of mass shootings at polling places. They say the change could deter voters.

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