Guns at work could soon be law

By Elise Preston

NewsChannel 10
AMARILLO---Keeping a gun with your belongings, even when you are at work could soon be legal in Texas.

The Texas house and senate just passed their final versions of a bill which allows licensed carriers to keep guns locked in their cars while on the job. The proposed law would not apply to federal and school property.

Cowboy Gelato owner Jim Anderson tells NewsChannel 10, twice, he's had to pull out a gun for his protection and the safety of his employees at his shop on Sixth Street. One of the workers there is his 16 year old granddaughter.  That's why he's for the proposed law.

"We have had our share of problems from time to time with people, but once they understand, we aren't going to be threatened, they leave." said Jim Anderson
 His co-owner and wife, Ann, is not so sure. Even though the bill is for those who have gone through an extensive background check to carry, she's still apprehensive.

"I worry about the responsibility of other people to make sure nothing happens." said Ann Anderson.

Concealed gun license instructor, Ryan Neusch does have faith in those who are licensed and thinks the bill is vital to public safety.

"Those who would be keeping the guns inside their vehicles, there going to be your law abiding citizens." said Neusch.

A similar version of the bill failed to pass in the Texas house in 2007 and 2009.
State representative Warren Chisum of Pampa did not vote for the legislation in the past, but this year,he gave the bill a green light.  Telling NewsChannel 10, the second amendment allows residents to bear arms and there should be no reason to give up that right.

A right, Jim Anderson feels is pertinent.

"A cop is sometimes 10,15 minutes away, what's happening is now." said Anderson.
The bill now heads to Governor Rick Perry to be signed.
http://www.newschannel10.com/story/14743345/guns-at-work-could-soon-be-law?clienttype=printable