But several Democrats openly scoffed about the claim of those concerns for their their safety, pointing out the recently revealed news that Gowan was allowing lawmakers to carry concealed weapons on the floor.

Rep. Lela Alston, whose legislative experience goes back to 1977, said she’s never felt at risk from the public. And Alston said she weathered some high-tension times such as the impeachment hearings in the 1980s against Gov. Evan Mecham.

Alston said her worries are a bit closer to her.

“I want to know how I’m going to be safe on this floor,’’ she said. Alston said she wants a list of lawmakers who Gowan has allowed to be armed.

“I would like to know about that so I know, when in times of tension, who I need to stand away from,’’ she said.

House Majority Leader Steve Montenegro, R-Litchfield Park, said it’s all about ensuring that those who have access to the secure areas of the House have been properly screened. But House Minority Leader Eric Meyer, D-Paradise Valley, pointed out the requirement for a background check does not apply to individuals who House members can invite into the secure area and onto the floor.