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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Sen. Jason Esteves (D-Atlanta) shown in the Senate chambers on day 18 of the Georgia Legislative session on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025. (Natrice Miller/AJC)

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University of Georgia students are seen entering and leaving the main Library on the Athens campus on Monday, Sept. 8, 2025. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez