February 13, 2013

Hon. Representative Paul Davis

Room 359-West, Kansas Statehouse

300 S.W. 10^th Avenue

Topeka, Kansas  66612

Re:  House Bill 2055

Dear Representative Davis:

The City of Lawrence is opposed to House Bill 2055 which allows individuals licensed under the Personal and Family Protection Act to carry concealed handguns in city buildings, unless the buildings have adequate security measures in place.  The Lawrence City Commission believes the regulation of firearms, particularly in city buildings and facilities should be made at the local level.  Local officials are in a better position to determine the security needs in public buildings and facilities. 

Current law allows municipalities to prohibit concealed weapons in their buildings if the buildings are posted with signs that conform to standards established by the Kansas Attorney General.  The proposed changes would prohibit this practice unless such municipal building has “adequate security measures.”  The bill defines such adequate measures as electronic detection equipment and security personnel at public entrances.  Will the legislature also provide budgetary support to cities for these “adequate security measures?”  We doubt it.  The increase in security costs for cities like Lawrence will be substantial. 

Recent national tragedies involving gun violence highlight the need for reasonable restrictions on the carrying of weapons in certain public facilities.  We implore you to leave the crafting of reasonable restrictions on the carrying of weapons in city facilities to city officials.   

We urge you not to pass HB 2055 as it is written.  If you have further questions regarding the City’s position on this bill, please contact City Manager David Corliss at (785) 832-3400.

Sincerely,

Robert J. Schumm

Mayor

c:       City Commission

          David L. Corliss, City Manager