This bill would amend Article 1 of Chapter 3 of Title 12 of the O.C.G.A. to revise provisions that address carrying weapons in public places, greatly reducing current restrictions. It would strike prohibitions on firearms other than handguns in parks, historic sites, or recreational areas and eliminates the requirement to have a carry license to possess a handgun in these areas. It also would strike the provision that prohibits loaded bows and arrows, spring guns, air rifles, slingshots, etc. in those areas. [That would be significant if you have joint-use agreements with recreational departments.] 

            The bill would allow anyone not prohibited by law from possessing a weapon and would recognize gun licenses from other states. It would strike all current provisions restricting the possession of weapons and the punishments associated with violations of those provisions. It changes all references to “license holders” to “any lawful weapons carrier.” It addresses many of the restrictions currently referring to hunting practices and strikes the provision that would prevent renewal of a carry license for those who had been convicted of carrying a weapon without a carry license.