ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - The Anne Arundel County Council has voted to allow residents to carry stun guns.
The council approved the measure in a 4-3 vote on Monday, reversing a 1985 ban. The legislation allows anyone 18 and older who passes a background check to carry electronic control devices, but misuse carries the possibility of three years in jail and a $3,000 fine.
Bill sponsor Councilman Derek Fink, a Pasadena Republican, says the legislation is meant to help people defend themselves, but opponents are concerned about untrained users.
County Government Relations Director Alan Friedman says the county administration does not object to the bill.
State lawmakers legalized stun guns four years ago, but counties can make their own rules. Anne Arundel County passed an exception to its ban in 2006 for police officers.
