[robbeaudin]

I took my family for a drive to Antelope Island State Park today. To my surprise as I was reading the brochure it appears that they are banning Concealed carry holders despite the fact that I thought a State Park could not ban concealed carry. Here is how the brochure reads, "Possession or use of firearms, traps, or other devices capable of launching a projectile that can immobilize, injure or kill a person or animal, or damage property is prohibited unless the weapon or device is 1) unloaded and packed away to prevent its use, or 2) being used by authorized law enforcement officers in the performance of official duties. Hunting is prohibited within park boundries." The problem I have is with #1, I was unaware that they could impose this kind of stipulation on a concealed carry permit holder since I thought the law says on the legislature can make laws of this sort? It appears they are making their own rules despite the fact they are a State Park and not private property. By the way I carried anyway ignoring the rule, I was already on my way out of the park when I noticed this in the brochure. Is there anyone that can tell me if they are allowed to do this?

 

[tapehoser]

That seems a bit odd. I would bet that if a 'rule' does not single out concealed firearm permit holders specifically, it does not apply to us.

But I've been wrong before.

 

[Jeff Johnson]

First a question. Is Antelope Island a State Park or a National Park? That makes a difference. If it is a National Park, then it carries the force of law.

If it's a State Park only, then I don't know of any statute that grants them the authority to ban CCW. It sounds like they are trying act like a National Park and act on their own.

IANAL.

 

[robbeaudin]

Jeff,

According to the brochure they are a Utah state Park, not a national park. My point is, I thought the legislatures preemptive law prevented them from doing this unless it is law enacted by the legislature or one of the enumerated secure areas listed in the law, which it is not. Who would I contact about getting this restriction removed from the park rules since it obviously violates the law.

 

[Jeff Johnson]

I would bring it to Clark Aposhian's attention. He's well-connected with BCI and others.

 

[W. Clark Aposhian]

They cannot ban CCW on the Is. I spoke with the director today. He agreed the brochure is misleading. I encouraged him to either re-write or put a sticker on the back clarifying.
Clark

Thank you for bringing this to my attendtion

 

[Jeff Johnson]

Thanks Clark! I knew we could count on you!

 

[robbeaudin]

Thanks again Clark for your help.