Rule allows guns in national parks

The Department of Interior finalized a rule that allows carrying concealed, loaded weapons in national parks and wildlife refuges in states where people are legally allowed to carry concealed arms.

The policy would essentially allow guns in all but three of the nation’s 391 parks. It takes effect Wednesday, forgoing the customary 60-day period before new rules are enacted.

The rule was criticized by a broad coalition of groups, including law enforcement, park rangers and former Park Service directors. Opponents cited statistics showing that parks are among the safest places in the country and said the presence of guns would create a law enforcement nightmare and might lead to poaching.

The gun rule is a victory for the National Rifle Assn.

-- Julie Cart