This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Re "Senate OKs concealed-gun bill, sets showdown with Utah guv" (Tribune, March 14):
Under no circumstance should any person be allowed to carry a weapon without a concealed-weapon permit. Enabling individuals to transit streets and public places with an easy-to-get, store-purchased weapon, as if it were just candy, is unsafe and elevates crime levels in our communities.
Facilitating a lethal weapon to any person over the age of 21 — who for the most part has not reached a safe level of maturity and good judgment — entices them to "play God" with the lives of others. Without proper security measures against those unable to use weapons prudently, there is no doubt about the hazard that law enforcement officers would have to put up with in combating crime.
Definitely not in the best interest of the citizens.
Emanuel M. Castanares
Salt Lake City