State Representative Darryl Owens says lawmakers in the House are sitting ducks.

"in the House, if someone decided to they wanted to start shooting, you don't have to be a good shot, you've got fish in a barrel down there. If you shoot, you'll probably hit somebody," says Rep. Owens.

Kentucky law allows for the open carrying of weapons throughout the capitol building. Representative Owens says that, in light of the shootings in Tucson last week, that law should be rethought.

"Last year, I was really taken aback when I walked out of the House and there were several people walking around with sidearms strapped to their side. That was a matter of concern to me. I think it's appropriate that, when you come into the House of Representatives, you need to secure your gun with security. Given the environment, given some things that have gone on, it just would appear to me to be really prudent that you do that," he says.

While Representative Owens thinks the House should adopt a "no guns allowed" policy like here at this bank, others disagree.

"The Constitution, the first part of the Constitution, the first statement actually provides the ability to protect themselves and their families and I don't think we want to infringe on that right. The framers of our Constitution didn't want to infringe on that right and neither do I. We focus on keeping guns away from criminals and allowing law-abiding citizens to be able to have the right to keep and bear arms," says Representative Bob Damron.

Representative Owens is skeptical of the argument that allowing people to openly carry weapons promotes safety.

"My understanding is that this guy got off all those rounds within twelve to fifteen seconds. Now unless you go Wyatt Earp and you've got a quick draw, you wouldn't be able to draw your gun and respond"

Sean Moody WKYT 27 Newsfirst