6.2. ERMUSR 06-10-2003 - Laserfiche WebLink

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One way to avoid concealed carry in areas outside the general lobby areas of most of our buildings, is to declare the offices and other more private areas "non-public"and make sure that the public knows that these areas are for"Authorized personnel only". We are only required to allow concealed carry in "public" areas of public facilities. In most cases this just includes the general lobby and reception areas, council chambers,meeting rooms and other areas that are always open to the public. Private offices and areas used just by employees are considered"Non-Public Areas". Common sense dictates that this new law really does not change the way we operate, as one has to assume that those who have been issued a permit to carry will do so responsibly. What remains to be seen is what type of incidents might arise more out of fear after a weapon has been seen on a person and it is unknown if this person has a permit to carry or if perhaps this is an illegally carried weapon. This would incite additional fear or apprehension if the situation happened to be heated at that particular time. For example, a person who has come to argue fees or City action and they are very agitated at the time. It will also change the way the police department operates procedurally as there will be a potential increase in contacts with people who albeit are carrying legally, nonetheless have a firearm on their person when contact between they and a peace officer occurs. The police department is currently evaluating policies to determine what changes need to occur regarding our daily contacts with suspects, drivers and in some case— complainants. Please see the League of Minnesota Cities website for additional information or if you care to see the law we have a copy of it at the police department. The law is 29 pages in length, one of the longest laws now contained in Minnesota statutes. There appears to be potential changes in the law forthcoming, mostly centered around where the weapons can be carried. It appears that at least churches and possibly the personal notification requirement may be modified. See or contact Captain Rolfe or myself if you have questions concerning this change.