10: 50 a.m. (AP) — Kansas residents could carry loaded handguns in their vehicles under a bill that’s cleared a state House committee.

The Federal and State Affairs expanded gun-rights legislation Wednesday before approving it. The committee’s unanimous voice vote sends the measure to the House for debate, as early as next week.

The bill strips cities and counties of the power to regulate guns. National and state gun-rights groups are pushing it.

The bill would void existing local gun ordinances throughout Kansas. It would ensure that the open carrying of firearms is allowed.

But backers hadn’t originally included the language on handguns in vehicles. People would have permission even if they don’t have state concealed carry permit.

Local government groups oppose the bill, saying city and county officials know their communities best.

 

 

 

5:17 a.m.  (AP) — A Kansas House committee is taking up legislation stripping cities and counties of any power to regulate guns or block the open carrying of firearms.

Approval Wednesday by the Federal and State Affairs Committee would send the bill to the full House for debate. National and state gun-rights groups are pushing it.

The bill would void existing local gun ordinances throughout Kansas. It would ensure that the open carrying of firearms is allowed statewide and bar cities and counties from regulating sales of guns and ammunition.

It would also prohibit cities and counties from using tax revenue to administer gun buyback programs.

Local government groups oppose the bill, saying city and county officials know their communities best.

The committee postponed a vote last week to review potential amendments.