At some point, you would think, common sense would prevail in the dustup over concealed — or even unconcealed — carry of guns into Kansas institutions.
In Monday’s Register, a Kansas City Star editorial took legislators to task for permitting guns to be taken at will into mental hospitals. The Star very correctly pointed out that severe apprehensiveness is common in such places.
That same level of tension may not be found in schools and college campuses, but they are filled with our youth, our future. Putting them at additional risk of a stray bullet is foolhardy.
Meanwhile, we have two opposing forces: On the one side is the NRA and other gun lobbies willing to chance catastrophe to maintain their right to carry firearms anywhere, anytime; on the other are those willing for citizens to own firearms, but think there are limits to where they should be permitted.
We understand the concept of protecting oneself, but having a handgun at the ready in all circumstances is not a logical adjunct to the privilege, particularly now that Kansas law permits concealed carry without prerequisite training.
Efforts to limit where guns may be taken, without having to pay a fortune for metal detectors and guards, are still alive.
Call or write your legislator — representatives Kent Thompson, Adam Lusker or Sen. Caryn Tyson — and urge them to keep guns from these public places.
— Bob Johnson
