Open Carry of a Firearm Amendments

This Utah bill creates a new offense for openly carrying firearms within 500 feet of "large public gatherings" (defined as 200+ people at protests, parades, or similar First Amendment events). It clarifies open carry rules by age: those 18-20 without permits may only carry unloaded firearms in vehicles or on streets, while those 21+ may openly carry anywhere except prohibited locations like schools, airports, or houses of worship. The key new provision specifically bans open carry near large gatherings, though concealed carry remains unaffected. This directly affects Utah residents carrying firearms openly near public demonstrations or events.