CHEYENNE, WY — Starting today, law-abiding citizens in Wyoming can legally carry concealed firearms into most state government buildings. Backed by a strong majority in the Legislature, the new law—the Wyoming Repeal Gun-Free Zones Act (HB 172)—officially eliminates most “gun-free zones” across the state, a major win for Second Amendment supporters.
The law allows both the public and state employees to concealed carry in government buildings such as the Capitol in Cheyenne. Exceptions remain for courtrooms, law enforcement offices, jails, prisons, and certain health and family services facilities. State employees must keep their firearms on their person or locked up securely when not in use. No permit is required for concealed carry in Wyoming, though a valid state ID and compliance with Constitutional Carry requirements apply.
A Shift Toward Empowerment
Supporters of the change say it’s about time. In a world where left-leaning political violence and targeted attacks are on the rise—from the assassination of a Minnesota lawmaker earlier this year to an arson attempt on Pennsylvania’s governor—many in Wyoming believe self-defense is not optional; it’s essential.
“This isn’t about politics—it’s about survival and rights,” said one Cheyenne resident outside the Capitol. “When the state fails to protect us, we have to protect ourselves.”
The law passed with overwhelming bipartisan support: 25–6 in the Senate and 50–10 in the House. Even Governor Mark Gordon, who vetoed similar legislation last year, was unable to stop it this time. The Legislature overrode opposition with a veto-proof majority.
Capitol and Campus: Big Changes
For the first time in state history, concealed carry is permitted inside the Wyoming State Capitol—a major symbolic shift. Previously, even constitutionally armed citizens were forced to disarm before entering. Signs banning firearms have been taken down, replaced only in buildings still exempt under the law.
The University of Wyoming also updated its policy to comply. Concealed firearms are now allowed inside most campus buildings, though banned from labs with explosive materials, healthcare areas, daycare centers, and venues serving alcohol. Open carry remains prohibited indoors.
University President Ed Seidel said there’s no evidence from other campuses that allowing lawful concealed carry increases violence. “Dozens of universities nationwide permit concealed firearms without issue,” he stated.
Schools Respond with Training Mandates
While the law permits concealed carry in K-12 schools, it leaves one gatekeeper in place: school boards must adopt specific rules to allow employees to carry. Some districts, like Douglas (Converse County School District No. 1), have repealed their previous carry policies for now, citing confusion and a desire to wait until “the dust settles.”
Others, like Albany County School District No. 1 in Laramie, are preparing to allow staff to carry—but with serious conditions: over 60 hours of training and full psychological evaluations. This makes it the strictest policy in the state. Other districts propose lighter but still rigorous standards, ranging from 24 to 56 hours of training.
Notably, students—regardless of permit status—are still prohibited from bringing firearms on school grounds.
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Signs of Resistance
Some state employees and members of the public have expressed unease. While the public comment periods showed a vocal minority of opposition, most policymakers agree the Legislature’s will is now clear.
Some officials, like Secretary of State Chuck Gray, have long criticized delays in lifting gun-free zones. During discussions on the Capitol firearms policy, Gray emphasized that rules can override executive orders when they conflict, stating, “That’s a basic understanding of law. If it’s allowed in the rule, it’s clearly allowed.” He has consistently supported expanding carry rights in state-owned buildings.
Final Notes
The new rules governing concealed carry in government buildings are currently considered “emergency rules,” but the Wyoming State Building Commission is expected to formalize them on July 9.
For now, posted signage with a red slash over a handgun silhouette will mark restricted areas. Everywhere else, freedom—and responsibility—will reign.
Know the Rules Before You Carry
If you’re over 21, a U.S. resident, and legally allowed to own a firearm, you can carry concealed in most public buildings across Wyoming. Check posted signage and avoid restricted zones such as courthouses and jails.
Stay armed. Stay trained. Stay free.
Wyoming Bill Repealing Gun Free Zones Passes Without Governor’s Signature
Good work, but why can a citizen not carry into a law enforcement office? Let’s say you are being followed by a suspicious vehicle. You do the proper thing and instead of going home or to a friend’s or relative’s home, you drive to a police station. Your follower is unusually bold and follows you into the police station parking area. Why must you leave your gun in your car to make your way inside, where the only employee present might be an unarmed civilian desk clerk? Ditto disarming to go into a medical facility. In my area, most hospitals… Read more »
From the Wyoming Constitution:
Sec. 24. Right to bear arms. The right of citizens to bear arms in defense of themselves and of the state shall not be denied.
I wonder what all this concealed law is about.
I wonder what this “Open carry remains prohibited indoors.” is all about.
Government makes you wonder.
HLB
I am so glad that I mustered out in Texas.
makes you wonder what is wrong with rest of country
hello red flag rick
Missouri carries concealed in general area, not chambers, at State Capitol with CCW licensel.
There can be no Constitutional law that bars carrying arms in a specific public area unless the government takes on all responsibility and accountability for protecting you in that area. IE: if they say gun free zone and will charge you for carrying, they must secure that zone with armed guards and metal detectors at every entry.
Some progress. Nice to see.
I do believe I was the first person to open carry in the capitol with a silenced pistol. Went up with CJ Grisham and some of the gun groups on one of the lobby days. Lots of fun.