Georgians with a weapons permit would be allowed to carry guns into churches, parts of college campuses and bars under legislation approved in the state House on Thursday.

House Bill 512, sponsored by Rep. Rick Jasperse, R-Jasper, passed 117-56 and now goes to the Senate.

After more than an hour of emotional debate, the bill passed largely along partisan lines. Rep. Charles Gregory, R-Kennesaw, upset over an amendment that limits rights of those whom law enforcement perceive as potential threats, voted against the bill.

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Voters leave the Wills Park Recreation Center in Alpharetta, Ga., on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.  (Abbey Cutrer/AJC)

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Managing Partner at Atlantica Properties, Darion Dunn (center) talks with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens during a tour following the ribbon cutting of Waterworks Village as part of the third phase of the city’s Rapid Housing Initiative on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025.
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