ID lawmakers consider restrictions on stun guns
Thursday, March 6, 2008 10:24 AM PST
BOISE (AP) — Lawmakers are pushing two measures that would restrict civilian use of stun guns because of fears over misuse of the weapons.
The House State Affairs Committee agreed on Wednesday to debate a bill that would require citizens to have concealed weapon permits to carry electronic stunning devices, such as Tasers.
The proposal would also outlaw sale of the weapons to minors.
At the same time, the Senate is amending a bill to prevent felons, drug addicts, the mentally ill, illegal aliens and anyone charged with or convicted of a crime that carries a prison sentence of more than a year from carrying the weapons.
One of the House bill’s supporters, Rep. Steve Kren, R-Nampa, said he believes the devices are generally safe but wants to make sure people know how to use them properly, especially since some stun guns can debilitate people for as long as 30 seconds. Requiring a concealed weapon permit will ensure that people are trained to safely use the devices, he said.
‘‘I would much rather have my wife carry a Taser than a firearm,’’ he said. ‘‘I’m not trying to limit the carrying of it. I just want to see responsible carrying of Taser weapons.’’
