New law allows travelers to bring guns with them on Amtrak train

TAMPA, Fla. - Beginning December 15, people traveling on Amtrak will legally be able to bring their gun with them.  Congress lifted a nearly decade old ban on carrying firearms when traveling on trains. 

The ban was put into place shortly after 9-11.

Under the new law, those people wanting to bring a gun with them when traveling on Amtrak will have to abide by a few strict rules.  The gun owner must notify Amtrak 24 hours before traveling.  The gun must be unloaded, and packed in a hard side case.  The gun must also be checked in with baggage.

People traveling out of the Amtrak station in downtown Tampa had a mixed response to the new law. "They have the rights to do it, as long as you can legally carry it, it's not a bad idea," said traveler Dan Rivera.

But senior attorney Dan Vice with the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence says the new law is not good for anyone traveling. "Baggage cars are not like cargo holds of an airplane.  They are hard to secure," said Vice.  "You don't go through metal detectors or security to get on the train.  This allows anyone who can have a gun to bring it onto the train."

Those in support of the new law say it will make it easier for people traveling on hunting trips, and those who travel with valuable merchandise.

For a full list of rules and regulations to travel with a gun, visit amtrak.com or contact your local Amtrak station.