BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – You might have to leave your gun at home for a night out this summer.
The sidewalk in front of a popular Church Street bar became a murder scene after one Red Square patron shot another. Now, leaders want to make sure no more lives are lost to alcohol-fueled gun violence.
In Saint Albans, guns are as common as the deer locals shoot.
“We are a hunting community, and guns are a way of life,” said longtime resident Steven Andrews.
Still, Andrews believes firearms belong in the forest – not downtown.
“I feel it’s a thing that has to happen to make the community more safer for all,” said Andrews.
A new bill could make Andrew’s wish a reality. H.45 would ban guns on premises where alcohol is licensed to be served and require a posted notice of the ban.
Bill sponsors point out similar bans exist in more conservative states.
“If Texas has this law, I’m just wondering why Vermont doesn’t seriously consider it,” said Representative Barbara Rachelson (D-Chittenden).
Burlington officials pushed for a city-wide ban a decade ago and again last year after a fatal shooting outside Church Street bar Red Square.
Governor Scott didn’t bite, saying he doesn’t support piecemeal gun legislation so H.45 sponsors are pitching a statewide ban.
“It’s not like the alcohol is stronger in Burlington. So I think it could help statewide. And frankly, if people are at the bar having a good time, hopefully, they feel comfortable leaving their gun at home in safe storage,” said Rep. Rachelson.
Some Vermonters argue they’re safer carrying at all times. Others recognize the dangerous cocktail of guns and booze but fear the bill doesn’t get to the roots of gun violence.
“What’s the longer term, larger work that we can be doing? So recognizing that it could be a bit of a Band-Aid,” said St. Albans resident Clark Sheldon.
For others, H.45 Is a vital piece of the puzzle toward gun-safe communities.
“To make any kind of provision to avoid that, to ensure that it doesn’t happen, is a step in the right direction,” said Andrews.
Sponsors haven’t decided what enforcement would look like, and they’re not sure where Governor Scott stands, saying H.45 Is still working its way through the legislature.