NRA chief stumps for Chambliss

With the U.S. Senate runoff less than two weeks away, the head of the National Rifle Association Wayne LaPierre is in Georgia to stump for Republican Senator Saxby Chambliss.

LaPierre says Chambliss is a staunch supporter of Second Amendment rights. LaPierre’s not worried that when Democrats control Congress and the presidency next year gun rights will be curtailed.

"The average, working class Democrat man and woman, working man in this country, rank and file Democrat, strongly supports the Second Amendment and wants their rights defended and don't appreciate politicians attacking it."

Democratic challenger Jim Martin does support Second Amendment rights but with certain limitations for criminals and those with mental illnesses.

LaPierre will join Chambliss tonight for a rally in Perry, Georgia.

Ga. lawmakers mulling more guns in more places

Phenix City, Ala., resident Michael Knighton fires his Ruger pistol at an indoor firing range at Shooters Columbus gun shop in Columbus, Ga. The gun emits a flash of light as the bullet leaves the barrel. (File photo/Dave Bender)

Georgia lawmakers are considering allowing guns in more public places, including churches and on university campuses.

Religious leaders spoke out against the change Tuesday at a hearing of a state Senate study committee looking at Georgia's firearms laws.

University officials said they support the current law, which bans guns on campuses.

Both churches and universities have been plagued by deadly shootings in recent years.

Some gun rights supporters said the death toll would not have been so high if parishioners and students had been armed and able to protect themselves.

Earlier this year, Gov. Sonny Perdue signed House Bill 89, which allows guns in state parks, mass transit and in restaurants that serve alcohol.

(The Associated Press)

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Lawsuit filed over state's new gun law

A lawsuit has been filed over Georgia’s new gun law, which went into effect Tuesday. Gun rights supporters are challenging the designation that Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is a "gun-free zone". City and airport officials yesterday reiterated the airport is not for visitors to bring their firearms. Airport officials say anyone carrying a gun into the airport could be arrested and charged with a misdemeanor. The new measure now law allows Georgians with carry permits to bring guns onto public transportation, restaurants with alcohol, and into state parks.