A bill that would make Utah gun laws superior to federal law passed the state House on Friday. Republican Representative Brian Greene of Pleasant Grove is the bill’s sponsor. He says his legislation is not just about preserving gun rights but also the rights of states to stand against the federal government.
“I submit to you that this is proper, that it is prudent, and that we should adopt this legislation so that we are in the best position possible if and when the time comes that we need to defend the jurisdiction of this state and the liberties of our citizens,” said Greene.
Even though the language of the bill was modified through amendments, Democratic Representative Brian King of Salt Lake says it would still violate the supremacy clause of the U-S Constitution.
“It suggests that where there is a conflict between the terms of the U.S. Constitution and the terms of the Utah State Constitution, the Utah State Constitution prevails. That is not true,” said King.
House Bill 114 passed on a vote 49-17, but it’s unclear if it will be vetted by a Senate standing committee and considered by the Senate before the Legislative session ends on March 14th. Scheduled standing committee meetings for the session ended Thursday.