Gun Policies At Polling Places

Tonight - we are learning more information about whether you can bring a gun to your local polling location.

Waay-31's bridget divers joins us live from the madison county court house.

She spoke with madison county probate judge - frank barger - to get answers.

Bridget what does the law say regarding guns at polling locations?

Alabama is an open carry state, but once you're on private property the option to carry a gun is up to the owners.

Many polling locations here in north alabama are located on private property.

"if you're in a private facility voting and we're in many churches throughout the county, many of those locations have policies that don't allow guns or weapons in their facilities."

Madison county probate judge frank barger told me he provides signs to private facilities so they can post their gun policy.

Judge frank barger/ madison county probate judge "so, you'll see a sign outside your polling location that states no guns or weapons are allowed.

So, we kindly ask that you honor that."

Judge barger says so far...there haven't been issues of citizens bringing guns into polling locations.

Judge frank barger/ madison county probate judge "in the number of years that i've done this and for a long time that predates me we've had no issues related to guns or weapons or open carry here in madison county."

If any issues arise on election day - poll workers have the expereince and training on how to handle it.

"a great majority of them have worked for us for a long number of years and so we provide specific training on interacting with folks.

If it's an open carry issue, how to address that."

Judge barger told me if there is an incident on election day involing a gun or weapon... law enforcement is prepared to respond.

The sheriff also has plans in place to handle those situations.

Live in madison county, bridget divers, waay-31 news.

If you bring a gun or weapon with you to your polling location on election day - make sure to read the signs outside before entering the facility.