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CHEYENNE, WY — In a significant victory for Second Amendment advocates, Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon has allowed House Enrolled Act 0024 (House Bill 0172) to become law without his signature, paving the way for the repeal of many of the state’s restrictive gun-free zones. The new law, set to take effect on July 1, 2025, expands where law-abiding citizens with a valid concealed carry permit can legally carry their firearms — including in public schools, colleges, and government buildings.
Expanding Self-Defense Rights Across Wyoming
For years, gun-free zones have prevented responsible, law-abiding citizens from exercising their right to self-defense in critical places like public schools and government meetings — locations that have, unfortunately, been targeted by criminals who ignore gun laws altogether. With the passage of HB0172, permit holders in Wyoming will no longer be forced to disarm when entering many public spaces, leveling the playing field and allowing them to protect themselves and others should the need arise.
Under the new law, individuals with a Wyoming-issued concealed carry permit will be allowed to carry in:
- Government meetings, including legislative sessions and committee hearings.
- Public airports, except in areas restricted under federal law.
- Public buildings, including K-12 schools, colleges, and universities, unless explicitly prohibited by other laws.
The bill also creates penalties for public entities that unlawfully deny entry to a permit holder carrying lawfully, reinforcing the principle that the right to bear arms doesn’t stop at the door of a government building.
Governor’s Mixed Message
In his letter explaining why he allowed the bill to pass without his signature, Governor Gordon reaffirmed his personal support for repealing gun-free zones. However, he criticized the legislature for cutting local governments out of the decision-making process, arguing that school districts, colleges, and local governments should have more say in setting policies for their facilities.
While Gordon’s concern about local control reflects a common debate over the balance between state and local authority, his decision not to veto the bill sends a clear signal: repealing gun-free zones and restoring self-defense rights is a priority the people of Wyoming strongly support.
Repealing Gun-Free Zones: A Step Toward Safer Communities
The repeal of these restrictions recognizes what many in the self-defense community have long argued — gun-free zones do nothing to stop criminals and only disarm the people who follow the law. Time and again, mass shootings and violent attacks have taken place in so-called gun-free zones, where law-abiding citizens were left defenseless.
With HB0172 becoming law, Wyoming is taking a strong stand for the rights of responsible gun owners and reinforcing the belief that self-defense should not be restricted by arbitrary location-based bans. Permit holders have already demonstrated they are law-abiding and trained to carry safely, and this law ensures they won’t have to disarm at the places they may need protection the most.
Self-Defense Perspective
This new law highlights the importance of removing barriers that prevent lawful self-defense. Criminals, by definition, do not follow signage or laws prohibiting firearms. Gun-free zones only impact responsible citizens who are committed to following the law — leaving them vulnerable and unable to respond effectively if a threat emerges. By empowering lawful concealed carriers to protect themselves wherever they go, Wyoming is reinforcing both personal freedom and public safety.
