CHEYENNE, WY — Wyoming lawmakers are set to consider Senate File 37 (SF0037) during the 2025 legislative session, a bill designed to establish an enhanced concealed carry permit allowing permit holders to carry firearms in school zones, on school campuses, and at certain collegiate or professional athletic events. The proposal, spearheaded by Sen. Ed Cooper (R-Ten Sleep) and co-sponsored by other legislators, aims to expand firearm carry rights while increasing safety through stricter training and qualification requirements.

Under current Wyoming law, carrying a concealed firearm on school property is prohibited unless a school district explicitly adopts a policy allowing it. However, these policies are rare and often only extend to specific staff members. SF0037 seeks to change this by creating a clear legal pathway for concealed carry in school zones with enhanced oversight and training standards.

Enhanced Concealed Carry Permits: Key Features

The bill introduces the Enhanced Concealed Carry Permit, which differs from Wyoming’s standard concealed carry permit in several ways:

1. Increased Training Requirements:
   Applicants must complete at least eight hours of firearm training within the past 12 months. The course must include live-fire training, where the applicant fires at least 98 rounds, and instruction on Wyoming firearm laws and self-defense principles.
2. Proof of Proficiency:
   Applicants must demonstrate firearm proficiency through a qualifying handgun course or recent experience as a law enforcement officer who has requalified on an approved shooting course.
3. Background Checks and Documentation:
   Applicants are required to submit fingerprints for a comprehensive background check and provide proof of Wyoming residency, such as a state-issued driver’s license.
4. Expanded Carry Zones:
   Permit holders would be allowed to carry concealed firearms in the following locations:
   • Public and private elementary and secondary schools.
   • Colleges and universities.
   • Professional and school athletic events not related to firearms.

The bill also outlines strict revocation policies for those who misuse their permit or become ineligible to hold one due to criminal activity or other violations.

Legislative Debate and Public Response

Supporters of SF0037 argue that the bill addresses both public safety and the rights of law-abiding gun owners. Many parents and concealed carry advocates, including the constituent who inspired the bill, feel it is unreasonable to disarm while dropping off or picking up children from school.

Sen. Cooper explained that the enhanced permit system would hold carriers to a higher standard, ensuring that those carrying firearms in sensitive areas like schools have undergone rigorous training. “This is just an alternative to get a little bit more responsibility to someone that is going to concealed carry on a school campus,” Cooper said.

Co-sponsor Sen. Wendy Schuler (R-Evanston) acknowledged concerns about how law enforcement might distinguish between a shooter and an armed citizen during a crisis. However, she believes the enhanced training requirements make the bill a reasonable compromise, offering peace of mind to parents while maintaining safety protocols.

Opponents of the bill worry about introducing more firearms into school zones and the potential for confusion during emergencies.

Implications for Wyoming Schools

If passed, SF0037 would mark a significant shift in Wyoming’s approach to school safety and gun rights. Proponents believe the enhanced training and vetting process would mitigate risks while empowering responsible citizens to protect themselves and others in critical situations.

For gun owners, the bill offers an opportunity to extend their carry rights into areas where restrictions previously applied. However, it also raises questions about balancing safety, personal freedom, and the complexities of responding to active threats in school settings.

A Question for Readers

Should legally armed citizens be allowed to carry concealed firearms in schools? Does the enhanced permit requirement strike the right balance between safety and Second Amendment rights, or should restrictions remain in place to limit firearms on school campuses?

This debate centers on protecting the most precious part of our lives—our children. For some, that protection means allowing responsible, trained individuals to carry firearms wherever threats might arise. For others, keeping firearms out of schools is paramount.

Let us know what you think. Should Wyoming move forward with SF0037?