Brewer vetoes bill allowing guns in buildings

PHOENIX – Gov. Jan Brewer has vetoed a bill that would have allowed guns in public buildings.

The governor's office announced the veto Tuesday. The bill proposed permitting gun owners to carry firearms into government facilities that lacked security.

The bill would have required the use of law enforcement officers or armed security guards with metal detectors or X-ray machines. Signs and storage lockers would also be needed.

Supporters of the bill say citizens have a right to defend themselves.

Opponents of the bill say the measure would come at a huge cost to cities and towns.

Brewer vetoed a similar bill last year.

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, nine states have similar gun laws