ELLIJAY, Ga. (AP) - Georgia took a big step Wednesday toward expanding where licensed gun carriers can take their weapons, as the governor signed a bill allowing them in bars without restriction and in some churches, schools and government buildings under certain circumstances.
Following mass shootings in recent years, some states have pursued stronger limits on guns while others like Georgia have taken the opposite path, with advocates arguing that people should be allowed to carry weapons as an issue of public safety.
Republicans control large majorities in the Georgia General Assembly, and the bill passed overwhelming despite objections from some religious leaders and local government officials.
The bill makes several changes to state law.
Guns could be brought into some government buildings that don't have certain security measures, such as a metal detector or security guards screening visitors.
It allows religious leaders to make the decision whether a person with a permit can bring a gun into their place of worship.
And school districts would now be able, if they want, to allow some employees to carry a firearm on school grounds under certain conditions.
Related video: