Diverse Sources

College Campuses Carrying Guns

By: William Jordan

                The campus of Texas State, as well as colleges over the state of Texas, increase in registered students year after year, and improving the safety of students and facility is a primary concern of the universities.

                Over 35,000 students are enrolled at Texas State since 2013. A Senate Bill 11, that will allow students to carry concealed firearms on university campuses, has been passed by Texas legislation. The bill, also referred to as the ‘Campus Carry Bill’, has yet to be signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott.

                By interviewing facility, students, and parents the university was able to better understand the views and opinions on campus. Individuals on campus will be allowed to carry concealed weapons, but will it produce the desired outcome?

                The University Police Department plans to follow the guidelines that are established by the state law to ensure the safety of the campus.

“In the profession we swear to uphold those particular laws that are implemented, and as they are constructed, and as they are structured for enforcement,” said Sergeant Alexander Villalobos. “Whatever comes up September 2016, we will enforce it.”

Collected By: Jeff Brown

 While other some other states have already enacted the law, others are not as quick to make the decision to allow people to carry concealed wepaons on campus.  Students at Texas State give their input on the subject. 

“With all the events and functions that Texas State has, people could be in danger and should protect themselves," said Jessica Hartsook, future freshman at Texas State. 

Once the bill is in affect students will be allowed to go to campuses with concealed weapons. Parents, such as Mike Shaw, are concerned as well about the regulation if the state does enact the bill.

"Yes. Absolutely. The amount of students on a campus outnumber the cops,” said Shaw, parent of incoming freshmen. “Considering the unpredictability of a possible terrorist attack and outcome if you have students that are armed that could help reduce the casualties and can ultimately get rid of the threat."

All 50 States have requirements for citizens to meet before being allowed to possess concealed weapons. Concealed weapons on campuses will allow those 21 years old and licensed to carry firearms permitting that the campus approves the bill.

 Collected By: Jessie Marce