The Casper City Council is preparing to revise its policies on weapons in city-owned buildings following the passage of a new state law that significantly expands where concealed firearms may be legally carried in Wyoming, Gillette News Record reports.
During a recent work session, councilmembers heard from City Attorney Eric Nelson and several department heads as they discussed how the city might comply with the legislation, which takes effect July 1. The law, passed earlier this year, removes most gun-free zones in public facilities across the state.
The law, House Bill 172, sponsored by Rep. Jeremy Haroldson (R–Wheatland), permits lawful concealed carry in a variety of previously restricted spaces. These include government meetings, public K-12 schools, university and college facilities, and athletic events where alcohol is not served. The measure went into effect without the governor’s signature, following a similar vetoed attempt in 2024.
In response, public entities across Wyoming are updating their policies. The University of Wyoming has already made adjustments, and the Natrona County School District is still evaluating its approach.
Currently, Casper prohibits the possession of deadly weapons — a category that includes firearms, knives, bows, slingshots, and explosives — in city buildings. The city also conducts bag checks and uses metal detectors at council meetings.
Nelson advised the council that while most city policies will remain intact, certain exceptions must be made to align with the new state law. He clarified that the legislation applies specifically to lawful concealed firearms, not all types of deadly weapons.
“My reading of House Bill 172 is that it pertains to concealed carry firearms — so not necessarily to all deadly weapons,” Nelson told the council. “I don’t think that it throws the gate wide open to allow, for example, improvised explosive devices.”
The city is still considering how to implement enforcement. Possible options include requiring individuals to show a valid concealed carry permit or sign a log before entering buildings with a concealed weapon.
The revised rules will not apply to all city-owned venues. Facilities that serve alcohol — including the Ford Wyoming Center, Hogadon Ski Area, and the Municipal Golf Course — as well as the city jail and courthouse, will remain off-limits for concealed carry.
Complexities may arise at facilities such as the Casper Recreation Center, which hosts youth programs and athletic events. Whether concealed carry is permitted may vary depending on the nature of the activity and whether alcohol is present.
While no formal action was taken during the session, the city council informally approved moving forward with ordinance revisions. Nelson said a draft amendment could be introduced at the June 24 work session, with a potential resolution and special meeting to follow that same evening.
