Indiana Senate Approves Bill by Sen. Jim Tomes To Help Align Firearms Rules

Bill 292 would prohibit local government bodies from enacting stricter gun laws than firearms regulations already set by the state.

Indianapolis, Indiana –-(Ammoland.com)- State Sen. Jim Tomes’ (R-Wadesville) proposal created to help align firearms restrictions across Indiana is now on its way to the Indiana House of Representatives after passing the Senate today by a 38-12 vote.

Tomes said Senate Bill 292 would prohibit local government bodies from enacting stricter gun laws than firearms regulations already set by the state.

“Currently, Indiana is a patchwork quilt of gun laws, allowing for potential confusion among Hoosiers,” Tomes said. “This bill makes it possible for firearms owners, law enforcement, gun dealers and collectors to have a fair and consistent code of regulations applicable throughout the entire state.”

Tomes’ legislation would exempt courthouses and allow local judges to use their discretion at such a venue. Tomes said the idea for this bill came after learning of several local government entities trying to enact and enforce their own firearms restrictions. Officials in Elkhart, Gibson, Vanderburgh and other counties have attempted to adopt ordinances prohibiting firearms on county-owned or county-leased properties.

“Some regulations put into place by local governments may be contrary to state law, putting the rights of licensed gun-carrying Hoosiers at risk,” Tomes said. “Guns laws aren’t posted like speed limits and many might be unfamiliar with which properties are county-owned.”

As added protection, Tomes’ bill would allow citizens unfavorably affected by local government firearms ordinances to seek legal action against the responsible political party.

According to Indiana State Police officials, an estimated 250,000 Hoosiers currently hold firearms licenses in the state.

Tomes said full copy of the Senate Bill 292 can be found online at www.in.gov