Move to amend guns-on-campus bill fails, bill dies in committee

Sen. Russ Fulcher, R-Meridian, moved to send HB 222 to the Senate’s 14th Order for amendment, saying he’s concerned about venues like football stadiums. He said, “I think I know the issue somewhat coming in, and I hear and get exposed to thoughts and comments by people who’ve come from different vantage points, and I think it underscores the value of the comments by people who’ve come from different vantage points. I think it underscores the value of the process that we incur.”

Sen. Patti Anne Lodge, R-Huston, who said she’s been in high-security situations and had to give up rights, seconded the motion, and said, “I think we can make this a better bill by just a few amendments, and I want to ask those sponsors in the House to work with Sen. Fulcher on those. It’s not too late in the session to make sure that we do this right.”

But Senate President Pro-Tem Brent Hill, R-Rexburg, said, “I can’t remember any times in my history where a highly emotional, controversial issue comes out better when it goes to the 14th order of business, placing it in the hands of people who, one, have not had the opportunity of sitting here for the last couple of hours.” He said, “As you know any amendments, any amendments can go on this in the 14th Order. By considering such an amendment as has been described by Sen. Fulcher, we are acknowledging that there are times and places where guns are not appropriate on college campuses, yet in our typical legislative arrogance we’re saying we know better where those places and times are,” than do university officials. “In our great wisdom, we’re saying we can evaluate every circumstance, every venue … better than those” at the campuses, he said. “Once again, our lips preach local control, but our hearts are far from it.”

Fulcher’s motion then died on a 3-6 vote, which means the bill stays in committee, dead for the session. Those voting in favor were Fulcher, Lodge and committee Chairman Curt McKenzie, R-Nampa. Those voting against were Sens. Davis, Hill, McGee, Winder, Malepeai(McWilliam), and Stennett.