Governor Eric Holcomb took a significant step on Wednesday by signing a bill into law that grants most statewide elected officials the right to carry guns at the Statehouse. Additionally, this legislation prohibits credit card companies from rejecting purchases made at Indiana gun stores solely based on how these companies categorize firearm purchases. This move aims to ensure the security and rights of elected officials, as well as promote equal treatment for gun store customers.
State officers in Indiana were given the green light to carry firearms on the grounds of the Indiana Statehouse with the passing of House Enrolled Act 1084. This provision was included in the bill during the final week of the legislative session, following the failure of a similar provision in a Senate bill that didn’t make it through the House.
State law previously permitted members of the Indiana General Assembly to carry firearms at the Statehouse. However, a recent law now extends this privilege to the state comptroller, treasurer, secretary of state, and attorney general as well. It is important to note that the general public is still prohibited from carrying firearms on the capitol complex.
Indiana Treasurer Daniel Elliott has expressed his support for the provision allowing individuals to carry guns at the Statehouse during committee testimony on Senate Bill 14. During his testimony in January, Elliott informed the Senators that all four statewide officers were in favor of including this language in the original bill.
Treasurer Daniel Elliott
Elliott expressed gratitude for the passing and signing into law of the provision that permits him to carry a firearm at the Statehouse, according to a statement given to IndyStar. During his testimony before the Senate committee in January, Elliott revealed that he has been personally carrying a gun for numerous years.
In a statement to IndyStar, Elliott expressed gratitude towards the General Assembly for their efforts in addressing this matter. He emphasized that our 2nd Amendment rights should extend beyond the statehouse and commended Governor Holcomb for signing the bill into law.
Attorney General Todd Rokita
According to a spokesperson for Rokita’s office, the attorney general has consistently advocated for the Second Amendment rights of all Hoosiers. However, the spokesperson emphasized that Rokita does not believe it necessary to personally carry a firearm for self-defense, given the high level of support he enjoys in the state.
Secretary of State Diego Morales
According to a spokesperson for the secretary of state, Morales has expressed feeling safe at the Statehouse and has complete confidence in Capitol Police.
The spokesperson stated that as a supporter of the Second Amendment, he values the freedom for himself and future Indiana Secretaries of State to decide whether or not to carry a weapon.
Comptroller Elise Nieshalla
The office of state Comptroller Elise Nieshalla has expressed security concerns and therefore will not disclose whether she plans to carry a gun at the Statehouse, according to a spokesperson.
Nieshalla expressed gratitude for the opportunity given to state officers through House Enrolled Act 1084, according to a statement provided to IndyStar.
“I am grateful for the Indiana General Assembly’s efforts in granting statewide elected officials the right-to-carry, which allows us to enhance our personal protection on Statehouse grounds,” expressed Nieshalla. “Furthermore, I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated men and women of the State Police who tirelessly work towards ensuring our safety every day.”
