Gun-toting diners target Va. restaurants in protest

Nation's Restaurant News, March 31, 2008

RICHMOND, VA. -- Gun-control opponents in northern Virginia said they would carry unconcealed weapons into alcohol-serving restaurants in April to disprove a political adversary's assertions that the eateries would refuse admittance to armed patrons.

Virginia's House and Senate passed legislation earlier this month that allows people to carry concealed weapons into restaurants that serve alcohol. But Gov. Timothy Kaine vetoed the bill, saying it would endanger restaurant employees and customers.

Currently, 34 states allow people to carry concealed guns into restaurants that serve alcohol. Virginia only permits unconcealed weapons to be taken inside, according to the National Rifle Association.

Gun advocacy groups were angered by comments from state Sen. Richard Saslaw, who said restaurants would not admit people who obviously were packing guns. In protest, pro-gun groups said members would tote guns when they visit restaurants for lunch on April 5, 12 and 19 and dinner on April 26.

The Virginia Hospitality and Travel Association indicated that it would forewarn restaurants about the planned protests to minimize alarm.