CWTA Statement on the Shooting of Charlie Kirk

CWTA totally rejects the notion that violence is ever acceptable to silence political beliefs. Unfortunately, violence is on the rise against members of both political parties.

Gun violence is on the rise as well. CWTA actively supports sensible gun legislation. Utah does not and allows anyone over the age of 21, who can lawfully possess a firearm, to carry a concealed weapon. The state also offers “provisional permits” for firearms to those aged 18 to 20, typical ages for college students.

CWTA also actively champions freedom of speech and freedom of assembly guaranteed by the First Amendment to the Constitution. We totally support Charlie Kirk’s appearance at the University of Utah and completely decry the act of violence that ended his life there.

Additionally, CWTA is actively working on addressing legislation which impacts gun control. The following are two gun laws that Utah has passed in the last few years.

In 2021, Utah implemented Constitutional Carry via HB 60, allowing anyone 21 or older who is legally permitted to own a firearm to carry a handgun, loaded or unloaded, openly or concealed, without a permit. While not required, individuals can still obtain a Utah Concealed Firearm Permit (CFP) for reciprocity with other states that recognize it. There is no legal requirement to notify a law enforcement officer you are carrying a firearm.

Key Provisions of Utah's Constitutional Carry (2021)
Eligibility: Any person 21 or older who is not otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm can carry a handgun.
Manner of Carry: Carrying a handgun, whether open or concealed, is legal without a permit.
Loaded Firearms: Carrying a loaded firearm is legal under the new law.
No Duty to Notify: You are not required to inform a law enforcement officer that you are carrying a firearm.

In 2025, Utah's "Campus Carry" law, specifically HB 128, allows individuals aged 18 and older to carry a firearm, either openly or concealed, on college campuses, provided they hold a valid Utah Concealed Weapon Permit (CWP). This law overturned a previous requirement where only concealed carry was permitted and required a CWP for campus access.

Key aspects of the 2025 Campus Carry law in Utah:
Permit Required: You must have a valid Utah Concealed Weapon Permit (CWP) to carry a firearm on campus.
Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old.
Open or Concealed Carry: The new law permits both concealed and open carrying of a firearm.