A new bill was brought before the Utah legislation. If it passes, HB 133, would allow those who are 18 years and older to openly carry firearms.
This bill introduces many changes to laws in Utah regarding firearms. Notably, the bill states that “an individual 18 years old or older may carry a firearm, that the individual may otherwise lawfully carry, in an open manner: in a vehicle in which the individual is lawfully present; on a public street; or in any other place not prohibited by, or pursuant to, state statute or federal law.”
The bill also introduces that those who are 21 years or older may concealed carry firearms without a concealed carry permit under the same circumstances.
Currently, legislation regarding openly carrying firearms says that those who are below 21 years may not openly carry a loaded firearm. Some Utah lawmakers say this is the best age for this law to be in place, arguing that 18-year-olds are mentally teenagers.
“The last time I spoke in a government hearing like this, it was in support of a bill that raised the age for motorcycle helmets from 18 to 21,” said Intermountain Medical Center Trauma Surgeon Dr. Dave Morris. “Our legislature, at the time, agreed that 18-year-olds can’t make every single decision on their own.”
Despite this, lawmakers passed the first stage of this bill with only one “no” vote by the House Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Committee’s only Democrat representative, Sandra Hollins.
Along with lifting certain age-based restrictions, the bill also states that landlords would be prohibited from restricting occupants from lawfully owning a firearm within their residence, as well as restricting certain short-barreled shotguns and other modified firearms.
In order to stay up to date with this bill and other local news, check out SUUNews’ webpage. State lawmakers’ contact information can also be found on the Utah State Legislature website.
The Senate voted against the bill on Feb. 28, 2025.
Author: Tallon Taylor
Photo courtesy of Aristide Economopoulos
Editor: Anna Mower
news@suunews.net
