NC could approve concealed guns in parks, eateries

RALEIGH, NC (AP) — North Carolina lawmakers are moving toward
allowing people with concealed handgun permits into more
restaurants and into public parks, but not necessarily when
children are involved in sporting events.

The state House on Tuesday tentatively approved allowing people
with a concealed handgun permit to carry the weapon into a
restaurant that serves alcohol, which is now illegal. The law also
would prevent local governments from passing ordinances banning
guns in parks they operate.

The bill was changed to allow counties to decide whether to bar
concealed handguns from around playing fields and swimming pools
where children compete.

More than a half-dozen Republicans, including some with careers
in law enforcement, spoke in favor of the change because sometimes
parents sometimes get so angry they lose all reason and proportion.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)