RICHMOND—
A new bill allowing concealed permit holders to carry in bars and restaurants has one big stipulation- no drinking.The legislation's sponsor, Senator Emmett Hanger, R-24th, called the measure "a step in the right direction" for preserving public safety, second amendment rights and the separation of alcohol and guns.
"Only those who have disregard for the law are able to carry in [bars and restaurants] now, and they will continue to carry," said Hanger.
"Most people will have the obligation not to consume alcohol [while carrying concealed], and they will take that seriously and that will be honored," he added.
But as the bill awaits Governor McDonnell's signature- it already passed the House and Senate with heavy support- some opponents wonder whether the provision banning drinking can actually be enforced.
"How do you monitor that," asked Del. Joe Morrissey, D-74th. "Where is the bar policeman? Is he going around from patron to patron saying, 'I see you drinking, do you have a concealed weapon?'"
Hanger said violators will face a Class 2 misdemeanor and the revocation of the their concealed permit.
"There is a substantial penalty," he said, "because they can lose the right to carry- most people jealously guard that right that they've acquired."
CBS 6 contacted Virginia State Police and the Richmond Police Department to find out how the agencies would enforce the law.
Both groups declined to comment on pending legislation, until it becomes finalized.
Area bar owner Chad Painter, meanwhile, said the new law will not change how he runs his restaurant Wonderland.
"If you're responsible enough to own a weapon and to go through the proper channels for a permit," observed Painter, "then you're going to be responsible enough to know when it is appropriate to use a hand gun."
Wonderland is situated on Main Street in Shockoe Bottom, an area that routinely draws several police units every weekend.
Painter added that other establishments may want to reconsider their security procedures.
"If you know that your customers are more likely to carry guns or weapons, then yes you should have to have metal detectors and pat people down," said Painter.
Very similar legislation passed the General Assembly in 2008 and 2009, but met with stiff resistance from then Governor Tim Kaine.
McDonnell has publicly stated he plans on signing the concealed weapons legislation into law.
