A bill proposed by Rep Jeremy Munson (R - Crystal Lake) would allow carry permit holders to sue establishments that ban guns if they are harmed on their premises. There's a long debate on whether or not someone has a right to restrict an individual's ability to protect his or her self. Munson's bill would allow punitive damages in these cases.

Current state law requires permit holders to leave an establishment that posts a sign prohibiting guns. A permit holder is only held legally liable if he or she is asked to leave by the owner of the establishment or an employee, but refuses. HF3051 now places liability on the establishment.

Subd. 2. Property owner responsibility. (a) A property owner or entity who prohibits the carrying of firearms by a person who is otherwise authorized to carry a firearm or who is not otherwise prohibited from carrying a firearm shall assume absolute custodial responsibility for the safety and defense of the unarmed person while the person is located on the owner's or entity's property that is posted with a sign prohibiting firearms.

The bill was co-authored by Reps Drazkowski, Bahr and Miller who are the other three members of the New House Republican Caucus. Last year four Republican legislators broke off the Old House Republican Caucus led by lobbyist legislator Kurt Daudt and formed a new, more conservative caucus.

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