It says banning weapons is a practical rule, considering over 2 million people visited “The Great Minnesota Get-Together” in 2019. The Fair states on its website that weapons are prohibited as well as fireworks, alcohol, illegal drugs, drones, bikes and skateboards. That’s why we’re seeking this injunction.” It’s clear their intent is to keep out law abiding permit holders along with those carrying illegally, and that’s not allowed under Minnesota state law. “This installation of metal detectors is the bridge too far. “People weren’t being disarmed or told to take their gun back to their vehicle prior to the installation of metal detectors,” said Bryan Strawser, MGOC chair. Organizers cited the use of metal detectors at other state fairs, major league sporting events and theme parks.
The decision was originally made ahead of the 2020 State Fair, which was canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic, as organizers sought to increase security at the event.
The debate is an old one, but the group said the Fair’s decision to install metal detectors at its 11 entrances pushed them to litigate. “As an arm of state government, the Minnesota State Agricultural Society is completely preempted under multiple state statutes from prohibiting the lawful carry of firearms on the state fairgrounds or during the Minnesota State Fair,” MGOC said in a press release. Tim Christopher and gun rights advocate Sarah Cade Hauptman, filed Tuesday’s lawsuit in Ramsey County District Court against Ramsey County, Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher and the State Agricultural Society, which governs the State Fair. The Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus, along with gun owner Rev. Gun advocacy group says metal detectors at State Fair prompted lawsuit to protect gun owners’ right to carry – Twin CitiesĪ gun advocacy group is suing the Minnesota State Agricultural Society saying the State Fair’s prohibition of legally carried firearms violates state law.