The federal government is preparing to loosen a ban on bringing loaded guns into national parks, reports the Los Angeles Times. The NRA has been pushing for the ban to be eased, saying it violates the right to bear arms and puts citizens at risk of attack from savage wild animals—and humans. Others say letting guns in would spoil the park experience.
The new regulations, which could be in drafted by April, would bring gun restrictions in national parks in line with laws in some states, which allow weapons. Nine Democrats joined 41 Republicans in supporting the repeal, but many park workers and nature lovers aren't on board. "How many of you would want to go out there if you knew that people were running up and down the Appalachian Trail with guns?" asked a retired park ranger. (More national park stories.)