Legislation advances to assert state’s authority over gun policy

The Utah House has advanced legislation that asserts the state's authority over gun policy.

House Bill 271 from Republican Representative Cory Maloy prevents local governments from enacting their own laws involving firearms.

The bill comes in response to Salt Lake County's decision to require federal background checks for all purchases during gun shows at the Mountain Expo Center, including sales between two private parties.

The bill now advances to the State Senate.