Arizona to allow concealed carry without permit

East Valley Tribune
Jul. 24, 2010

In less than a week, Arizona residents will be allowed to carry a gun in their pocket or purse without needing paperwork to do so.

Senate Bill 1108, which allows people to carry concealed guns with no permit or safety training, takes effect on July 29, the same day controversial immigration legislation is scheduled to begin enforcement. It makes Arizona the third state behind Alaska and Vermont, all supportive of gun rights, to enact a law that raises concerns for law enforcement.

Its disconcerting, said Mesa Police Chief Frank Milstead. The fact that anyone can walk around and carry a gun without training is disconcerting. We dont let our police officers walk around with a gun without training. Some people will start shoving a gun down their pants and shoot themselves.

SB 1108, sponsored by Sen. Russell Pearce, R-Mesa, was signed into law by Gov. Jan Brewer on April 16. People can carry guns without a permit, but still will not be allowed to take a gun into a bar or restaurant without one, as most such establishments prohibit them anyway.

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