Up in arms over guns.

• Author: Griffin, Denise
• Position: Easing of gun control legislation - Includes related articles

States have been easing their restrictions on concealed weapons for the last couple of years, but that hasn't cooled off the arguments.

A series of death threats against her family changed the way Colorado Senator MaryAnne Tebedo thinks about guns. Addressing legislators at NCSL's Annual Meeting in Milwaukee in July, she explained how guns ceased to represent just the occasional sporting use and became a viable alternative for self-protection. Ultimately, the senator - a wife, mother and grandmother - sponsored legislation to ease restrictions on carrying concealed weapons.

An unprecedented number of states have, in fact, eased their concealed weapons laws over the last two years. More than half the states now issue permits fairly readily to anyone who meets certain requirements such as a background check and fingerprinting. Only eight states prohibit private citizens from carrying concealed weapons; among the remaining states. various restrictions such as requiring a demonstrated need or allowing the issuer discretion over who gets a permit fuel an ongoing debate.

Still in states that do allow it, only 1 percent to 4 percent of the adult population apply for and are granted permits. So why are supporters pushing the issue?

The most recurring theme is the need for self protection in the face of increasing random violence. A second concern is that Americans are on the verge of losing their rights to own and bear arms.

Attitudes toward gun laws have changed over the last decade, says Representative Donna Sytek of New Hampshire. "Ten years ago, I sponsored a bill that prohibited carrying a gun into a courthouse, and it went through without debate." she said. "Ten years later I sponsored a bill that said kids couldn't have guns in school, and it was cause for World War III. There's a lot more passion about gun issues now."

RIGHTS VS. RESTRICTIONS

Police are unable to protect all citizens at all times, so law-abiding citizens should not have to break the law in order to protect themselves say proponents.

Opponents fear a concealed gun will give people a false sense of security and place them in danger of having the weapon taken and used against them. "It's true that the police can't protect you at all times." says Texas Representative Garnet F. Coleman, "but neither can a concealed gun. Nothing can guarantee your absolute safety." Joseph P. Sudbay of Handgun Control Inc. reminded the annual meeting audience that "John Hinckley got off six shots...