The University of Arkansas has been proactive in making their athletic events safe from gunfire in response to the controversial Act 562, which expanded conceal-carry laws in the state.
Despite being granted an exemption from the law, school officials are taking steps to ensure that no handguns are able to make their way into the stadium. On Saturday, the Arkansas Democrat Gazette reported that the school is exploring the possibility of adding metal detectors to help screen anyone attempting to enter the stadium.
“UAPD and Razorback Athletics are working jointly to prepare security plans to be submitted to the Arkansas State Police, as outlined in the law, for the upcoming athletics seasons,” university spokesman Kevin Trainor said. Trainor also said the university’s request for bids is “not directly related to concealed carry in Arkansas.”
Act 562 allows concealed-carry permit holders who complete extra training to posses a firearm on campus, in bars and churches, and many publicly-funded buildings. The training that is to be completed to be eligible for the extended privilege is yet to be developed by the police, despite the fact that the law goes into effect on Sept. 1.
Southeastern Conference Commissioner was vocal in preventing firearms from being brought in athletic events.
Despite resistance from the NRA, exemptions were eventually issued to three different locations: the Arkansas State Hospital, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and collegiate athletic events.
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