SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) - The Senate State Affairs Committee yesterday moved ahead a bill allowing people to carry concealed handguns into the State Capitol building.
The bill would allow carry concealed only to those who possess an enhanced permit. They would have to register in advance with capitol security.
House Majority Leader Lee Qualm of Pierre is the measure's main sponsor. Qualm says even with increased security this session, legislators are "sitting in a fishbowl and anyone can walk in here at any time with a weapon and do great harm before he is ever stopped."
Qualm says a law abiding citizen with an enhanced permit is a threat to no one, "he is your friend."
South Dakota Highway Patrol Trooper Rick Miller says every day law enforcement officers put on their guns and "they have the understanding that they may have to take a life."
Miller says he relies on his basic and continuing training to know that he'll do the right thing.
He says it would be a mistake to allow the holder of the enhanced concealed pistol permit to carry in the capitol. Miller says sometimes emotional and controversial issues can cause tense situations.
The Trooper says the potential for violence exists and allowing additional firearms in the capitol only raises the possible level of violence.
Governor Daugaard says if the measure makes it to his desk, he'll veto it.