HUTCHINSON, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas State Fair will reevaluate its gun policy this fall because concert security concerns could conflict with state law that allows gun owners to carry their weapons openly.
The fair had to screen concertgoers at the Sept. 7 Billy Currington performance because he required it in his contract, and the show was delayed while everyone and their bags were checked, The Wichita Eagle reported.
Fair Manager Robin Jennison said the fair will likely have to employ that kind of security more often if it wants to continue booking top acts because such requirements are becoming common. The fair also will likely have to impose some limits on the types of bags people can bring to concerts, Jennison said.
Dylan Evans, a member of the fair board, said the fair will have to refine its security processes to make sure it can get the audience screened quickly while still ensuring safety.
"I really feel like this is a new kind of area that we as a board need to look into more ... and make sure we do the proper thing to keep the public that comes into the state fair and the people of Kansas safe," Evans said.
Another board member, Harmon Bliss, said the process will improve as people get used to it.
