The Arizona House has voted for a proposal allowing concealed-carry permits holders to carry guns into some public buildings.
The proposal by Republican Sen. John Kavanagh passed on a mainly party-line 35-23 vote Tuesday with all but one Republican voting yes and all Democrats opposed.
It must return to the Senate because of a House amendment.
Courtrooms, federal buildings, high schools and universities are exempt, and the House amendment added Maricopa Medical Center.
Senate Bill 1257 would require operators of public establishments to allow permit-holders to carry their firearms unless they employ security guards and metal detectors at entrances.
The costs to the state for needed security are estimated at up to $6 million a year and up to $13 million a year at Maricopa County facilities alone.
