More than 70% of Americans support prohibiting guns in bars, sports stadiums, and protests or rallies, places where alcohol is served or conflict may arise, according to a study by the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions at the Bloomberg School of Public Health.
The majority that supports restricting firearms in these locations even includes gun owners and individuals who say they would feel safer if more people could legally carry guns, the study said.
Authors say these findings can help inform courts and policymakers as they determine whether such places are ‘sensitive locations’ where firearms may be prohibited. Public opinion can help guide decisions about ‘sensitive places’ where the risks of carrying firearms may outweigh potential benefits.
“Most Americans, including gun owners, recognize that some places are not safe for guns, especially where alcohol and conflict might mix,” said Cassandra Crifasi, lead author of the study.
Colorado has a sensitive spaces law which covers government offices, courthouses and the state capitol, but no law concerning bars, stadiums, or protests. Most sports arenas in Colorado do bar concealed carry, however.