Loaded: guns now allowed in Yosemite

2010-02-18 / Front Page

A new law that takes effect today allows licensed gun owners to bring firearms into national parks, including Yosemite. The law is not without controversy, however, as gun control advocates fear it will lead to increased violence in parks.

Before today, laws strictly prohibited loaded guns in Yosemite. Guns will still not be allowed in visitors’ centers or rangers’ offices, because firearms are banned in federal buildings. They can be carried into lodging establishments or concession outlets, however.

For the complete story, see this week’s Mariposa Gazette.

Return to top

Luke, Here is some

Submitted by Kris (not verified) on Mon, 2010-02-22 10:44.

Luke, Here is some interesting information for you. Got to Mariposa Gazette for the story. Thanks! Kris

And they don't allow medical

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 2010-02-22 10:16.

And they don't allow medical marijuana dispensaries because it may impact citizen safety.

I'm sure Yosemite has its

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 2010-02-24 08:26.

I'm sure Yosemite has its fair share of "medical marijuana dispensaries." I don't think we will see an increase in criminal acts in our National Parks as a result of this law passing. It's not like people are searched for firearms before entering a park anyways.

Do you think that perhaps

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 2010-02-24 10:51.

Do you think that perhaps trigger eager people might use guns against the wildlife, especially bears, because they would have an excuse to use the weapon if they felt that the animal was threatening them? Some people feel threatened at the sight of a bear. Would you, as a ranger or hiker, want to confront someone with a firearm? Is it a good example for people not in law enforcement to carry legal exposed firearms in an area where children and families visit? Why do we need a firearm at all in Yosemite? I have been there a hundred times without feeling the need for a gun or any weapon. Why the sudden need for a weapon? I would feel safer with people smoking weed than a person with a gun.