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CHEYENNE — After hearing nearly two hours of public testimony, a Senate committee endorsed two proposals that would allow people with concealed-carry permits to take weapons onto Wyoming college campuses and to state and local government meetings.

The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 4-1 Wednesday to send House Bills 136 and 137 to the full Senate for additional debate. The bills have already passed the House.

Supporters of the two proposals say law-abiding citizens who must meet stringent requirements to earn a concealed-carry permit shouldn’t have their rights infringed upon. They say the measures would improve self-defense in active shooter situations.

“It’s restoring our fundamental and natural rights,” Rep. Bo Biteman, R-Ranchester and a sponsor of both bills, said.

Biteman said fears of “blood in the streets” if the proposals become law are unfounded. He and other supporters noted that other states that allow concealed carry on college campuses and at government meetings haven’t had any issues with increased violence.

Opponents contend allowing guns on college campuses and at government meetings would increase the danger of a shooting, whether intentional or accidental, and hinder responding police officers.