State of Indiana Archives: on Gun Control
Andrew Straw:
I support the 2nd Amendment
Q: Do you agree or disagree with the statement, "Absolute right to gun ownership"?
A: I support the 2nd Amendment, along with the rest of the Bill of Rights.
Source: OnTheIssues interview of 2018 Indiana Senate candidate
Feb 28, 2018
Brian Bosma:
Do all I can to protect the 2nd amendment rights
Q: Should citizens be allowed to carry concealed guns?A: Yes.
Q: Should a license be required for gun possession?
A: Yes.
Bosma adds, "I support Indiana's current gun laws and will continue to do all I can to protect the 2nd amendment rights of Hoosiers."
Source: Indiana Gubernatorial 2012 PVS Political Courage Test
Nov 1, 2012
Daniel Coats:
1991: voted for Brady Bill & background checks
Both support extending tax cuts for small businesses. Both are also anti-abortion and in favor of gun rights. Ellsworth even earned an endorsement from the National Rifle Association because Coats voted in 1991 for the Brady Bill to institute federal
background checks for most gun purchases.
Coats said he earned an endorsement from the Indiana and National Right to Life organization, mostly because Ellsworth voted for a health care law that did not prohibit taxpayer money being used for abortions.
Source: News & Tribune coverage of 2010 Indiana Senate debate
Oct 24, 2010
Eddie Melton:
Opposes funding NRA gun training for teachers
It seems counterproductive to pass legislation that puts more guns into schools rather than working to keep guns out of schools. This bill requires teachers to go through a National Rifle Association (NRA) training, instead of being trained by local
law enforcement. Our state shouldn't be in the business of funneling money into organizations like the NRA, at the expense of our children's safety. Why isn't our law enforcement academy asked to conduct the school firearm training for teachers?
Source: IN Senate Dems press release for 2020 Indiana governor race
Apr 10, 2019
Eric Holcomb:
Eliminated fees for gun licenses; allowed guns in churches
Gov. Holcomb signed the bill into law on the stage of the NRA-ILA's Leadership Forum. The new law expands self-defense options in the following ways:- eliminates state fees for a new five-year state License to Carry a Handgun (LTCH);
- allows law-abiding gun owners greater ability to carry for self-protection in churches;
- allows gun owners to register to vote when they apply for a LTCH.
Source: Eagle Country 99.3FM on 2020 Indiana gubernatorial race
Apr 26, 2019
Jim Banks:
Right to responsible gun ownership is under attack
One after another, our rights have been under attack by liberals who hope to control every aspect of our lives. Our Second Amendment rights have not been immune from these attacks and are usually the first to be sacrificed on the altar of political
correctness.The right to responsible gun ownership has been under attack for decades. Jim is an avid sportsman who enjoys the opportunity to exercise his right to hunt and thinks that all Hoosiers who choose to do so have that right. In fact, as a
State Senator, Jim Banks co-authored legislation that would add language that protects an individual's right to hunt, fish and farm to the Indiana Constitution.
Jim has authored more pro-gun legislation than any other candidate running for Indiana's
Third District. He's actively identified ways to protect Hoosier gun owners' rights under Indiana law and worked hard to implement those policy ideas at the Statehouse.
Source: 2016 Indiana House campaign website JimBanks.us
Nov 8, 2016
John Gregg:
I'm a gun-totin', Bible-quotin' Southern Indiana Democrat
I've wondered about the hesitation Democrats seem to have with nominating John Gregg again. Some think he blew it in 2012 and simply don't trust him to run a good campaign in 2016. But the biggest problem for Gregg may be that he's portrayed himself as
a `gun-totin', Bible-quotin' Southern Indiana Democrat` in a party whose base is increasing more progressive & nearing extinction in Southern Indiana. In short, they want a real lefty, which Gregg has spent a career trying to convince people he is not.
Source: Indiana Forefront on 2016 Indiana gubernatorial race
Aug 10, 2015
Mark Hurt:
Guns protect innocent people
Mark Hurt firmly believes the Second Amendment of the US Constitution is a fundamental right, not just for hunting but for personal defense. Research is clear that conceal and carry laws work to protect innocent people, particularly women
and the more defenseless among us. For that reason, Hurt is a member of the NRA and supports their ongoing efforts to protect the legal rights to keep and bear arms.
Source: 2018 Indiana Senatorial website MarkHurt.com
Oct 15, 2017
Mike Braun:
A hunter himself, he's a proud backer of the 2nd Amendment
Mike is an avid Hunter, NRA member,
and 100% pro-second Amendment.
Source: 2018 Indiana Senate campaign website MikeBraunForIndiana.com
May 3, 2018
Mike Braun:
100% pro-Second Amendment
Gun Control: Support more restrictive gun control legislation?Braun: No. "100% pro-Second Amendment."
Donnelly: Mostly no. Opposes assault weapons ban, but supports expanded background checks.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Indiana Senate race
Nov 1, 2018
Mike Pence:
Gun ownership increases public safety
In the wake of the terrorist attack on a recruiting station in Chattanooga, Tennessee, I'm proud to say that Indiana was among the first states to allow our National Guard to carry firearms at all recruiting stations.
Hoosiers know firearms in the hands of law abiding citizens--including our National Guard--makes our communities more safe not, less safe. Indiana will always defend the right to keep and bear arms.
Source: 2016 State of the State speech to Indiana legislature
Jan 12, 2016
Mitch Daniels:
No background checks; no licenses; yes concealed carry
Q: Should background checks be required on gun sales between private citizens at gun shows? A: No.
Q: Should citizens be allowed to carry concealed guns?
A: Yes.
Q: Should a license be required for gun possession?
A: No.
Q: Do you support current levels of enforcement of existing state restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns?
A: Yes.
Q: Do you support current state restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns?
A: Yes.
Q:
Source: Indiana Gubernatorial Election 2008 Political Courage Test
Nov 1, 2008
Todd Young:
National reciprocity for conceal-carry
As a member of the National Rifle Association and a U.S. Marine, Todd is a proud supporter of the 2nd Amendment. Todd has consistently been a co-sponsor of a measure that would
give national reciprocity to the conceal-carry permits of individual states. When properly licensed gun owners travel with their firearms, they shouldn't have to worry about whether or not they are breaking the law.
Source: Vote-USA.org on 2016 Indiana Senate incumbents
Aug 10, 2016
Woody Myers:
For background checks, ban semi-automatic weapons
Q: Enact more restrictive legislation on guns?Woody Myers: Yes. Seeks more extensive background checks, ban on civilian use of semi-automatics and closing gun-show loophole.
Eric Holcomb: No. Signed law letting person with gun permit carry a firearm in a school building being used by a church.
Source: CampusElect survey on 2020 Indiana Gubernatorial race
Nov 3, 2020
Suzanne Crouch:
Democrats want to restrict our rights to bear arms
Crouch said with Democrats in control of Congress and President Joe Biden we are seeing what socialism will do to our
country. "They want to nationalize elections and restrict our rights to bear arms," she said. "Big government and corporation media are eroding our rights."
Source: The Herald Bulletin on 2024 Indiana Gubernatorial race
Sep 29, 2022
Brian Bosma:
Prohibit local gun laws; require statewide standard
SB292: Preemption of local firearm regulation. Prohibits, with certain exceptions, a political subdivision from regulating: firearms, ammunition, and firearm accessories.NRA-ILA statement in support (5/6/11): In one of the most
successful pro-gun legislative sessions in the Hoosier State’s recent history, the Indiana General Assembly passed and sent several pro-firearm freedom bills to the governor. The NRA's top legislative priority, the "Firearm Preemption Reform" bill,
passed in the General Assembly on the final day of the 2011 legislative session. Senate Bill 292 would mandate a statewide standard for all firearm laws in Indiana ["pre-empting" local city ordinances for more firearm restrictions].
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 70-24-6 on Apr/29/11; State Rep. Brian Bosma voted YES; passed Senate 40-10-0 on Apr/29/11; signed by Governor Mitch Daniels on May/10/11.
Source: NRA-ILA on Indiana Legislature voting records SB292
Apr 29, 2011
Jim Banks:
Prohibit local gun laws; require statewide standard
SB292: Preemption of local firearm regulation. Prohibits, with certain exceptions, a political subdivision from regulating: firearms, ammunition, and firearm accessories.NRA-ILA statement in support (5/6/11): In one of the most
successful pro-gun legislative sessions in the Hoosier State’s recent history, the Indiana General Assembly passed and sent several pro-firearm freedom bills to the governor. The NRA's top legislative priority, the "Firearm Preemption Reform" bill,
passed in the General Assembly on the final day of the 2011 legislative session. Senate Bill 292 would mandate a statewide standard for all firearm laws in Indiana ["pre-empting" local city ordinances for more firearm restrictions].
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 70-24-6 on Apr/29/11; passed Senate 40-10-0 on Apr/29/11; State Sen. Jim Banks voted YES; signed by Governor Mitch Daniels on May/10/11.
Source: NRA-ILA on Indiana Legislature voting records SB292
Apr 29, 2011
Jim Baird:
Prohibit local gun laws; require statewide standard
SB292: Preemption of local firearm regulation. Prohibits, with certain exceptions, a political subdivision from regulating: firearms, ammunition, and firearm accessories.NRA-ILA statement in support (5/6/11): In one of the most
successful pro-gun legislative sessions in the Hoosier State’s recent history, the Indiana General Assembly passed and sent several pro-firearm freedom bills to the governor. The NRA's top legislative priority, the "Firearm Preemption Reform" bill,
passed in the General Assembly on the final day of the 2011 legislative session. Senate Bill 292 would mandate a statewide standard for all firearm laws in Indiana ["pre-empting" local city ordinances for more firearm restrictions].
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 70-24-6 on Apr/29/11; State Rep. Jim Baird voted YES; passed Senate 40-10-0 on Apr/29/11; signed by Governor Mitch Daniels on May/10/11.
Source: NRA-ILA on Indiana Legislature voting records SB292
Apr 29, 2011
Mitch Daniels:
Prohibit local gun laws; require statewide standard
SB292: Preemption of local firearm regulation. Prohibits, with certain exceptions, a political subdivision from regulating: firearms, ammunition, and firearm accessories.NRA-ILA statement in support (5/6/11): In one of the most
successful pro-gun legislative sessions in the Hoosier State’s recent history, the Indiana General Assembly passed and sent several pro-firearm freedom bills to the governor. The NRA's top legislative priority, the "Firearm Preemption Reform" bill,
passed in the General Assembly on the final day of the 2011 legislative session. Senate Bill 292 would mandate a statewide standard for all firearm laws in Indiana ["pre-empting" local city ordinances for more firearm restrictions].
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 70-24-6 on Apr/29/11; passed Senate 40-10-0 on Apr/29/11; signed by Governor Mitch Daniels on May/10/11.
Source: NRA-ILA on Indiana Legislature voting records SB292
May 10, 2011
Suzanne Crouch:
Prohibit local gun laws; require statewide standard
SB292: Preemption of local firearm regulation. Prohibits, with certain exceptions, a political subdivision from regulating: firearms, ammunition, and firearm accessories.NRA-ILA statement in support (5/6/11): In one of the most
successful pro-gun legislative sessions in the Hoosier State’s recent history, the Indiana General Assembly passed and sent several pro-firearm freedom bills to the governor. The NRA's top legislative priority, the "Firearm Preemption Reform" bill,
passed in the General Assembly on the final day of the 2011 legislative session. Senate Bill 292 would mandate a statewide standard for all firearm laws in Indiana ["pre-empting" local city ordinances for more firearm restrictions].
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 70-24-6 on Apr/29/11; State Rep. Suzanne Crouch voted YES; passed Senate 40-10-0 on Apr/29/11; signed by Governor Mitch Daniels on May/10/11.
Source: NRA-ILA on Indiana Legislature voting records SB292
Apr 29, 2011
Marc Carmichael:
Ban military style assault weapons, pass red flag law
Will work for a ban on the sale of military style assault weapons--the weapon of choice for the mass murderers of our
children and other innocent victims and will fight for a national red flag law.
Source: 2024 Indiana Senate campaign website MarcForIndiana.com
Sep 11, 2023
Jennifer McCormick:
Arming school teachers is a very bad idea
McCormick has been vocal against the idea of arming teachers. She has said arming teachers is a "very bad idea," but she's left room for guns to be allowed in the state's schools. McCormick, a Republican, said there is more risk than reward when it
comes to arming teachers. "We lose our keys, for God's sake," she said. "I couldn't imagine trying to keep track of guns and the ownership. Where do we put them? There are so many layers to that."
Source: WRTV News on 2024 Indiana Gubernatorial race
May 25, 2018
Mike Braun:
Prevent declaration that gun violence is a health emergency
On gun violence: "Many said that public health emergencies would not be abused to impose gun control, but after we saw the vast expansion of executive power during COVID and the New Mexico governor use a public health emergency to effectively suspend
the Second Amendment in her state, no one can doubt that this needs to be addressed," Braun said in a statement. "We need to set into law that no one can remove the right to defend ourselves and our families with the stroke of a pen."
Source: FOX News on 2024 Indiana Gubernatorial race
Jul 19, 2023
Eric Doden:
I am a firearm owner and 100% pro-Second Amendment
- I am a firearm owner and 100% pro-Second Amendment
- The right to bear arms shall not be infringed.
- As Governor, I will not sign any piece of legislation that restricts the rights of law abiding gun owners enshrined in our U.S. Constitution.
- I support and treasure our Indiana Constitution's unique right to ensure citizens' rights to self-defense.
- I support Constitutional Carry and would never sign legislation as Governor restricting or repealing it.
Source: 2024 Indiana Governor campaign website DodenForIndiana.com
Dec 15, 2023
Curtis Hill:
Proud that Indiana is a constitutional-carry state
At an early age, Curtis learned the importance of the Second Amendment; as a young boy, he witnessed his home and family attacked by racist thugs. From that day forward, Curtis' father kept his family safe thanks
to the constitutional protections of our right to self-defense and the right to bear arms. Curtis is proud that Indiana is a constitutional-carry state and will stand tall against any attempts to infringe upon our Second Amendment rights.
Source: 2024 Indiana Gubernatorial campaign website CurtisHill.com
Dec 19, 2023
Jennifer McCormick:
I will work to repeal the permitless carry law
- I will work to repeal the permitless carry law and enact laws requiring universal background checks and 30-day waiting periods.
- I will promote safe storage requirements.
- I will promote a minimum age requirement to purchase a gun.
- I will
support restrictions on gun ownership for violent offenders, domestic abusers, and hate crime offenders.
- I will support the repeal of Indiana's preemption law that removed the ability of local governments to regulate firearms in their communities.
Source: 2024 Indiana Governor campaign website McCormickForGov.com
Jun 10, 2024
Suzanne Crouch:
Allow teachers to carry guns at school
Q: 2ND AMENDMENT: What restrictions on gun ownership are needed to protect public safety?A: I believe in the right to "keep and bear arms" and that the
Second Amendment protects private gun ownership by all lawful citizens. I affirm Section 32 of the Constitution of the State of Indiana, which states "the people shall have a right to bear arms, for the defense of themselves and the State."
Finally, I applaud the passage of "Constitutional carry" by the Indiana General Assembly. Indiana General Assembly.
Q: Should teachers be allowed to carry guns at school?
A: Yes.
Source: AFA iVoterGuide on 2024 Indiana Gubernatorial race
Aug 8, 2024
Valerie McCray:
License assault weapons based on skill, against a ban
We must not stop at just restricting access to all weapons, but particularly assault weapons. An outright ban on assault weapons will never work, or receive broad support, but we must recognize that assault weapons are used in mass
shooting events more so than most other gun violence events. This restriction, without an outright ban, can be accomplished by drafting legislation providing gun licenses based on skill.
Source: Indianapolis Record on 2024 Indiana Senate race
May 9, 2024
Brian Bosma:
Allow police to seize weapons from dangerous individuals
HB1776: Permits a law enforcement officer to seize a firearm possessed by an individual whom the officer reasonably believes to be dangerous.Psychiatry Online summary May 1, 2010: The bill sent to the governor amended Indiana's criminal
code; it defined a dangerous person as one who presents an imminent present risk or possible future risk of injury to self or others and who has not consistently taken medication to control "a mental illness that may be controlled by medication" or who
has a history to support "a reasonable belief that the person has a propensity for violent or emotionally unstable conduct."
Legislative Outcome:
Passed House 100-0-0 on Feb/17/05; State Rep. Brian Bosma voted YES; passed Senate 48-1-1 on Mar/21/05; Signed by Governor Mitch Daniels.
Source: Psychiatry Online on Indiana voting record HB1776
Feb 17, 2005
Mark Messmer:
Prohibit local gun laws; require statewide standard
SB292: Preemption of local firearm regulation. Prohibits, with certain exceptions, a political subdivision from regulating: firearms, ammunition, and firearm accessories.NRA-ILA statement in support (5/6/11): In one of the most
successful pro-gun legislative sessions in the Hoosier State’s recent history, the Indiana General Assembly passed and sent several pro-firearm freedom bills to the governor. The NRA's top legislative priority, the "Firearm Preemption Reform" bill,
passed in the General Assembly on the final day of the 2011 legislative session. Senate Bill 292 would mandate a statewide standard for all firearm laws in Indiana ["pre-empting" local city ordinances for more firearm restrictions].
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 70-24-6 on Apr/29/11; State Rep. Mark Messmer voted YES; passed Senate 40-10-0 on Apr/29/11; signed by Governor Mitch Daniels on May/10/11.
Source: NRA-ILA on Indiana Legislature voting records SB292
Apr 29, 2011
Mitch Daniels:
Allow police to seize weapons from dangerous individuals
HB1776: Permits a law enforcement officer to seize a firearm possessed by an individual whom the officer reasonably believes to be dangerous.Psychiatry Online summary May 1, 2010: The bill sent to the governor amended Indiana's criminal
code; it defined a dangerous person as one who presents an imminent present risk or possible future risk of injury to self or others and who has not consistently taken medication to control "a mental illness that may be controlled by medication" or who
has a history to support "a reasonable belief that the person has a propensity for violent or emotionally unstable conduct."
Legislative Outcome:
Passed House 100-0-0 on Feb/17/05; passed Senate 48-1-1 on Mar/21/05; Signed by Governor Mitch Daniels.
Source: Psychiatry Online on Indiana voting record HB1776
Feb 21, 2005
Marlin Stutzman:
Allow police to seize weapons from dangerous individuals
HB1776: Permits a law enforcement officer to seize a firearm possessed by an individual whom the officer reasonably believes to be dangerous.Psychiatry Online summary May 1, 2010: The bill sent to the governor amended Indiana's criminal
code; it defined a dangerous person as one who presents an imminent present risk or possible future risk of injury to self or others and who has not consistently taken medication to control "a mental illness that may be controlled by medication" or who
has a history to support "a reasonable belief that the person has a propensity for violent or emotionally unstable conduct."
Legislative Outcome:
Passed House 100-0-0 on Feb/17/05; State Rep. Marlin Stutzman voted YES; passed Senate 48-1-1 on Mar/21/05; Signed by Governor Mitch Daniels.
Source: Psychiatry Online on Indiana voting record HB1776
Feb 17, 2005
Page last updated: Feb 07, 2026