Bill would designate Arizona gun stores as essential firms

PHOENIX (AP) - The Arizona Senate has voted to designate gun stores as essential businesses allowed to remain open during an emergency.

Republicans sent the measure to the House in a 16-14 party-line vote on March 3.

Republican Sen. Wendy Rogers says the right to keep and bear arms must be protected, especially during emergencies.

Democratic Sen. Martin Quezada says the Legislature has much bigger priorities during the pandemic, such as ensuring people get access to unemployment insurance and don’t lose their homes.

The measure would apply to any store selling guns or ammunition or their components.

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