Measure would allow state fair-goers to carry 'dangerous weapons'

Newton Independent

An Iowa lawmaker introduced legislation today that would allow Iowa State Fair-goers to carry weapons while touring the fairgrounds.

Rep. Matt Windschitl, R-Missouri Valley, introduced House File 2160 that bars the state fair board from prohibiting "any dangerous weapon on the state fairgrounds," including any buildings, "when the carrying, transportation, or possession is otherwise lawful under the laws of this state."

The explantation of the measure defines "dangerous weapon" as "any instrument of device designed primarily for use in inflicting death or injury upon a human being or animal." The weapons include such things as pistols, revolvers, daggers, razors, stillettos, switchblades and "any portable device or weapon directing an electric current, impulse, wave, or beam that produces a high-voltage pulse designed to immobilize a person."

Currently, guns are prohibited on the state fairgrounds,  with or without a valid permit to carry. Failure to comply is cause for expulsion from the state fair.