In response to the recent legal brandishing of a loaded AR-15 in Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson, D-Lithonia, introduced a bill Monday to extend airport gun bans outside security.
The Airport Security Act would allow gun owners to carry unloaded firearms in a locked case while banning loaded weapons in the airport’s nonsecure areas.
While loaded guns currently are not allowed through security, local laws apply at the check-in, baggage claim and other areas of the airport. Hence, Jim Cooley of Barrow County carried his rifle in Hartsfield-Jackson earlier this month and took offense when questioned by a police officer.
Johnson spoke on the House floor about his bill this afternoon:
“Our nation’s airports are economic and cultural engines that drive our local, state and national economy. They are the front door for many of our communities,” Johnson said during a House floor speech Monday afternoon. “Unfortunately, they are also a known target for those seeking to incite fear.”
Johnson said Cooley only carried the loaded weapon in the airport “to make a point, and that as to show that he was legally able to carry his firearm in the airport.”
“Mr. Speaker,” Johnson said, “actions like this, which follow shootings at airports in Los Angeles and Houston, undermine public security in the same way as yelling ‘fire’ in a crowded theater.”
Johnson called his proposal “a common-sense bill,” and he called on others in Congress to join him “in keeping the traveling public safe.”
Johnson’s bill, a spokesman said, has 15 Democratic co-sponsors so far, including U.S. Reps. John Lewis and David Scott, both of Atlanta.
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