Montana: Campus Carry Bill to be Heard in House Committee Tomorrow

Tomorrow, March 10, at 8:00 a.m., the House Judiciary Committee is scheduled to hold a public hearing on Senate Bill 143 in Hearing Room 137.  Members are encouraged to attend the hearing in support of this pro-gun legislation and politely encourage committee members to vote “YES” on SB 143.  Sponsored by state Senator Cary Smith (R-27), SB 143 would prohibit restrictions on firearms that forbid law-abiding adults to protect themselves on college and university campuses. As previously reported, The Board of Regents would retain regulatory authority on things such as discharge, unholstered carry, dormitory storage and possession at campus events where alcohol is served and consumed.

Also on the move is House Bill 298, sponsored by state Representative Bill Harris (R-29).  HB 298 passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee by a 7 to 5 vote and will now go to the full Senate for consideration.  As previously reported, HB 298 expands Montanan’s freedom to legally carry a concealed firearm without a Montana concealed weapons permit (CWP) by harmonizing the carry laws present in city limits with those outside city limits.  Currently outside the city limits, residents are not required to obtain a concealed weapons permit in order to carry a concealed firearm.  This permitless carry legislation would bring conformity across the state and give Montanans the freedom to choose the best method of carrying for them, based on their attire, gender and/or physical attributes. 

It is important that you attend this hearing and show your support for Senate Bill 143.  If you are unable to attend, please contact members of the House Judiciary Committee (information provided below) and urge them to SUPPORT Senate Bill 143. Please also contact your state Senator and urge him or her to SUPPORT House Bill 298 by calling (406) 444-4800 or using this online form.  To find out who your Senator is, click here.

House Judiciary Committee:
Jerry Bennett (R-1), Chair
(406) 293-7012

Alan Doane (R-36), Vice-Chair
(406) 583-7546
[email protected]

Virginia Court (D-50), Vice-Chair
(406) 259-5099
[email protected]

Seth Berglee (R-58)
(406) 690-9329
[email protected]

Jenny Eck (D-79)
(406) 459-1082
[email protected]

Clayton Fiscus (R-43)
(406) 860-6400
[email protected]

Stephanie Hess (R-28)
[email protected]

Ellie Boldman Hill (D-90)
(406) 218-9608
[email protected]

Kathy Kelker (D-47)
(406) 652-6716
[email protected]

Sarah Laszloffy (R-53)
(406) 530-7013
[email protected]

Margie MacDonald (D-51)
(406) 652-6625
[email protected]