Those in favor argue the bill is designed to protect the rights of gun owners on lands owned or managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps).  This legislation would help end the patchwork of firearm laws and regulations that govern different federal lands managed by different federal agencies. “The exclusion of Army Corps water resources development projects is a classic case of the government’s left hand not knowing what the right hand is doing," said Congressman Bob Gibbs (R-OH). "If an American has lawfully obtained a concealed-carry permit, he or she should be able to exercise their constitutional rights on federal recreation lands, regardless of the agency.”

Those against the bill argue we need to have less guns in public places, not more. That Army Corps of Engineer lands can be found in heavily populated areas, within or near urban areas. Many of these are very crowded public lakes and parks frequented by recreational boaters with children. In addition, during peak lake season many of these visitors are consuming alcohol, and people that are consuming alcohol should not be handling firearms. It is already very difficult to police these areas, and the addition of firearms make it even more difficult.