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HB 472

Crimes and offenses; add certain facilities of the Geo. L. Smith II Georgia World Congress Center Authority to the locations in which the carrying of weapons or long guns is prohibited

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Clint Crowe and 5 co-sponsors

House Bill 472 prohibits carrying weapons in specific facilities of the Georgia World Congress Center, enhancing safety for visitors and requiring clear signage and fencing.

House Second Readers
#crimesandoffenses(criminalcode)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 472

Summary of House Bill 472

Bill Number: HB 472
Title: Crimes and offenses; add certain facilities of the Geo. L. Smith II Georgia World Congress Center Authority to the locations in which the carrying of weapons or long guns is prohibited
Status: House Second Readers
Introduced: February 18, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 472 aims to enhance public safety by prohibiting the carrying of weapons or long guns in specific facilities managed by the Geo. L. Smith II Georgia World Congress Center Authority. This bill seeks to amend existing laws regarding unauthorized locations for carrying firearms, thereby providing clearer guidelines for where such restrictions apply.

Key Provisions

  • Amendment to Code Section 16-11-127:
    The bill proposes an amendment to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, specifically targeting Code Section 16-11-127, which governs the carrying of weapons in unauthorized locations.

  • New Prohibition:
    The bill adds a new provision that prohibits carrying weapons or long guns within facilities of the Geo. L. Smith II Georgia World Congress Center Authority. The specific conditions for this prohibition include:

    • Facilities must be enclosed by fencing that is at least 8 feet high.
    • Prominent signage must be posted at all access points to notify individuals of the restrictions.
    • The prohibition applies only to areas where vehicles are not permitted to park.

Affected Parties

  • Visitors and Attendees:
    Individuals attending events or visiting the facilities of the Georgia World Congress Center will be directly impacted by this legislation, as they will be prohibited from carrying weapons or long guns in these areas.

  • Event Organizers and Facility Management:
    The management of the Georgia World Congress Center and event organizers will need to ensure compliance with the new regulations, including the installation of appropriate signage and fencing.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:

    • February 18, 2025: Bill introduced and entered the House Hopper.
    • February 19, 2025: Bill read for the first time in the House.
    • February 20, 2025: Bill read for the second time in the House.

  • Repeal of Conflicting Laws:
    The bill includes a provision to repeal any existing laws that conflict with the new regulations established by this act.

Conclusion

House Bill 472 seeks to enhance safety at the Geo. L. Smith II Georgia World Congress Center by prohibiting the carrying of weapons or long guns in designated facilities. By establishing clear guidelines and requirements for signage and fencing, the bill aims to create a safer environment for all visitors and attendees.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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