Senate bill would bar certain gun restrictions

A Senate bill proposes to make it unlawful for the governor or any government entity to restrict the lawful possession of firearms during a declared state of emergency.

SB157, sponsored by Sen. Mark Madsen, R-Lehi, proposes to prohibit the restriction or confiscation of a firearm or ammunition during an emergency. Specifically, the government would not be able to restrict the lawful possession, transfer, sale, transport, storage, display or use of a firearm or ammunition.

The bill, which is in Senate Rules, provides exceptions, such as if a firearm is confiscated in self-defense, if an individual is committing a felony or misdemeanor or if a person is not legally allowed to possess a firearm.