DURHAM, NH: January 6, 2021, the New Hampshire House voted 204-133 to reject a motion restoring the prohibition of deadly weapons in Representatives Hall. For decades until 2010, House Rules prohibited possession of weapons in the House chamber. Republicans have voted to repeal the restriction in recent terms when they have held the majority. During that time, numerous incidents of mishandled firearms have occurred on House grounds. House Speaker Emeritus Steve Shurtleff (D-Penacook) released the following statement:
“One week after the Governor cancelled his public inauguration because of concern over armed protesters, House Republicans voted to allow guns into the House chamber and public viewing gallery. If that is not the definition of irresponsibility, I don’t know what is.”
“When Republicans have permitted guns in the legislature, there have been numerous incidents of dropped and mishandled firearms on House property. We have an excellent protective services staff who assures that members and the public are safe while the House is in session. Today’s vote was unnecessary and harmful to public safety.”
Background on incidents of dropped guns on House grounds:
· (2017) N.H. Lawmaker Apologizes For Dropping Loaded Gun at Hearing | New Hampshire Public Radio (nhpr.org)
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