Iowa lawmakers recently passed legislation making changes current gun laws in the state.

One of the changes allows individuals to carry concealed weapons on public grounds such as county courthouses. Currently in Greene County, firearms aren’t permitted in the courthouse, but with the changes, individuals who have permits to carry a firearm can be allowed to bring firearms into the courthouse, with the exception of the courtroom, and not be charged with criminal trespass. Supervisor Vice-Chair Dawn Rudolph tells Raccoon Valley Radio her reaction to the change.

“I have no qualms about that. I know we were approached a few years ago about allowing people to carry within the courthouse and at that point we decided not to take action on that. As a result, it’s been pretty much decided for us.”

Rudolph adds she hopes the change doesn’t affect how people act.

“I’m going to hopefully trust the system that those people that do have the right to carry are responsible citizens and act appropriately. It is what it is, like I say I don’t object to it at all. It is one of our constitutional rights.”

She says there are safety measures in place in the courthouse in case a situation were to arise.