Gary Herbert on Gun Control

Vetoed concealed carry of guns without a permit

Analysis of support by Deseret News: Rep. Curt Oda said the bill simply allows those who can legally carry a gun to put a jacket on over their firearm, "It's not gun control, it's jacket control." Oda said the bill had overwhelming support from pro-gun organizations.

Analysis of veto message by Deseret News: Herbert vetoed the controversial "constitutional carry" bill. Herbert said his veto decision was supported by much of the law enforcement community. While he was passionate about Second Amendment rights, Utah needs gun policy that "sends a message that we have a quality of life that is sophisticated, and that we're not the wild and woolly West."

Legislative Outcome: Passed House 51-18-6 on 3/1/13; Passed Senate 22-7-0 on 3/13/13 ; Vetoed on 3/22/13

Support the 2nd Amendment as well as the 10th

During the 2010 legislative session, my support of the 2nd Amendment, as well as the 10th, was put to the test by Senate Bill 11. This bill protects not only the right to keep and bear arms, but the right of states to regulate commerce within their own borders. Despite pressure from anti-gun groups, I signed the bill.