A dramatic protest unfolded in Wyoming as around 25 demonstrators gathered at the state Capitol, lying on the floor outside Governor Mark Gordon’s office in what they called a “die-in.” According to Wyoming Public Media’s Chris Clements, protesters stained their shirts with fake blood and carried signs such as “Books > Bullets” and “Remember Byron,” referencing a recent shooting in northern Wyoming that took the lives of four children.
The protest was staged in direct opposition to House Bill 172 (HB 172), a bill that would eliminate gun-free zones in public schools, government buildings, and public meeting spaces across the state.
A Personal Battle Against Gun Violence
Aidan McGuire, a University of Wyoming student who participated in the protest, shared his personal connection to the issue. “When I was very young, I lost my father to gun violence,” he told Wyoming Public Media. His siblings have also encountered gun violence in various settings, shaping his view that more guns in public spaces will not reduce the threat. “Gun violence is a disease, and we need to fight it as such,” he emphasized, calling the bill “personally offensive.”
HB 172 Sparks Fierce Debate
At the heart of this controversy is HB 172, sponsored by Rep. Jeremy Haroldson of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus. Supporters of the bill argue that allowing more concealed carry permits in places previously designated as gun-free zones will improve security and deter potential large-scale shootings.
According to a report by Duncan Cowan of Your Wyoming Link, the bill would grant concealed carry permit holders the right to bring firearms into public buildings, schools, and even airports outside secured areas. Wyoming lawmakers, like Rep. Lee Filer, claim the bill upholds local control and ensures personal safety without excessive government interference.
Campus Views: Safety or Risk?
At Casper College, students voiced differing perspectives on HB 172. One student, identified as Jackson, told Your Wyoming Link that he supports the bill, arguing that large-scale shooters target gun-free zones. “I think the opposite is going to happen,” he said, suggesting that schools and other public spaces will become safer once people can respond to threats immediately.
On the other hand, a non-traditional student and parent, David, expressed concerns. “How do you know if somebody’s going to shoot somebody or de-escalate a situation?” he questioned, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of armed civilians.
Gun Rights Advocates Applaud the Bill
Gun rights advocates have rallied behind HB 172, with Washington Gun Law’s William Kirk hailing Wyoming as a state that “lets its citizens live like Americans.” He argued that gun-free zones create “modern killing fields,” citing research from the Crime Prevention Research Center which states that nearly 90% of large-scale shootings occur in these areas. His view is clear: removing gun-free zones will make public places safer by ensuring that potential victims are armed.
Pro-Gun Commentators Criticize Protesters
In a video posted by Armed Attorneys, hosts Emily Taylor and Richard Hayes dismissed the protest, referring to participants as “jabronies” staging a theatrical stunt. They pointed out that Wyoming’s bill mirrors legislation in other states that have already allowed concealed carry in public areas without incident. They also noted that HB 172 would still permit private property owners to ban firearms, which, they argue, strikes a balance between gun rights and property rights.
Teachers and Schools in the Crosshairs
One of the most controversial aspects of HB 172 is its potential impact on schools. The bill allows teachers and faculty members to carry concealed firearms if they meet certain training requirements.
Kirk argued that arming teachers is a logical step in preventing school shootings. “We haven’t had a plane hijacking since 9/11 because we secured the airports. Why do we not protect our children the same way?” he questioned. However, critics worry about the risks of introducing more guns into schools, particularly given ongoing concerns about mental health and student safety.
Governor Gordon’s Dilemma
Governor Mark Gordon now faces a critical decision: sign the bill into law, veto it, or let it pass without his signature. His past actions suggest he may veto it, as he rejected a similar bill in 2024. Gun rights supporters, including Armed Attorneys, have called on Wyoming residents to pressure Gordon into signing the bill. They argue that failing to pass HB 172 would go against the will of the legislature and citizens who favor stronger Second Amendment protections.
A Divided Public Weighs In
The debate surrounding HB 172 reflects a larger national conversation about the balance between gun rights and public safety. While gun rights advocates insist that eliminating gun-free zones will deter crime, opponents believe it will make everyday environments more dangerous.
Beth Howard, a protester at the Wyoming Capitol, worried that allowing more guns in public spaces would worsen mental health crises. “Last fall, there were two students that died by suicide in [University of Wyoming] dorms when guns weren’t allowed. So how much worse are we going to make that now?” she asked.
A Model for Other States?
Supporters of the bill see Wyoming’s approach as a model for other states looking to strengthen gun rights. Washington Gun Law’s Kirk highlighted how HB 172 sets a precedent for pushing back against restrictive gun policies. Meanwhile, Armed Attorneys stressed that Wyoming’s legislation is among the strongest pro-gun measures in recent years, especially given its broad coverage of schools, government meetings, and even airports.
The Bigger Picture: More Guns, More Safety?
One of the most striking arguments from HB 172 supporters is that more legally carried firearms will reduce large-scale shootings. The claim that gun-free zones attract large-scale shooters is often cited in pro-gun circles, but it remains a contentious point. While statistics show that many large-scale shootings do occur in gun-free zones, opponents argue that other factors – such as mental health and law enforcement policies – play a significant role.
A Pivotal Moment for Wyoming
As Governor Gordon deliberates, Wyoming finds itself at a crossroads. Will the state embrace a sweeping expansion of gun rights, or will it maintain restrictions on firearms in certain public spaces? The outcome of this decision will not only shape Wyoming’s gun laws but may also influence similar debates in other states. Whether one sees HB 172 as a victory for the Second Amendment or a dangerous experiment, one thing is certain: the battle over gun-free zones is far from over.
A former park ranger and wildlife conservationist, Lisa’s passion for survival started with her deep connection to nature. Raised on a small farm in northern Wisconsin, she learned how to grow her own food, raise livestock, and live off the land. Lisa writes about homesteading, natural remedies, and survival strategies. Whether it’s canning vegetables or setting up a rainwater harvesting system, Lisa’s goal is to help others live more sustainably and prepare for the unexpected.