Georgia Legislative Watch

The controversial HB 89, the “parking lot” bill, is back in the State House where it needs to be passed before it heads to the Governor’s desk.

State Rep. Tim Bearden will be offering amendments to address issues raised by gun rights groups.

[UPDATE] The House passed the Bearden Amendment and HB 89:

Georgians with a concealed weapon permit would be allowed to carry their guns at bus stops and other public transportation facilities, houses of worship and restaurants that serve alcohol under a bill that passed the House Thursday by a 111-58 vote.

The lawmakers expanded a Senate measure passed two weeks ago that would allow people with the permits to carry their guns at public parks and restaurants without alcohol licenses. It now returns to the Senate, which must approve the measure before it goes before Gov. Sonny Perdue.

I believe the measure now goes into conference.

[UPDATE II] The bill will go to the State Senate for an approve/disapprove vote, and apparently the Senate isn’t too happy with the changes made in the House.