The University of Texas released a statement today declaring their intention to allow concealed handgun license holders to carry their weapons in the classroom. Current Texas law requires public universities to allow licensed handgun owners in the classroom but does allow schools to declare gun-free zones.
UT has declared that concealed carry license holders must keep their weapon at all times or keep it securely locked in a gun safe. UT President Gregory Fenves wrote a letter to all faculty and staff detailing this decision, stating,
“I have thoroughly reviewed the policy recommendations of the Campus Carry Working Group and decided to adopt them. Under the law, I cannot adopt a policy that has the general effect of excluding licensed concealed handguns from campus. I agree with the working group that a classroom exclusion would have this effect.”
He then followed up this up by saying, “I do not believe handguns belong on a university campus, so this decision has been the greatest challenge of my presidency to date. I empathize with the many faculty members, staffers, students and parents of students who signed petitions, sent emails and letters, and organized to ban guns from campus and especially classrooms. As a professor, I understand the deep concerns raised by so many. However, as president, I have an obligation to uphold the law.”
The Texas legislation will go into effect on August 1, 2016.
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