Arguing Over Concealed Carry

When someone is asked what they think of Texas, provided that they have never visited the state, a series of common answers would be heard, including the three most prevalent images of the state in foreign media: cattle, oil and guns. However, the days of cowboys, outlaws and openly carrying firearms on belt holsters has long since left the stage of law and been replaced with stricter gun laws and regulations on how, where and when someone can carry a firearm on their person. Texas is one of 12 states that, with certain restrictions and qualifications, will allow citizens to carry concealed handguns on college campuses.
This bill was signed into law on June 1, 2015 by Governor Greg Abbott and went into effect on Aug. 1, 2016. A common misconception when the law entered the planning stage was that we would begin to see guns around college campuses after the law had entered effect, but the legislation makes it clear that the right to carry guns on campus extends only to those which can remain out of sight.
“All guns must remain concealed at all times or the permit holder is in violation of this law,” reads the TAMUK official section on concealed carry law.
However, the law extends only to public universities. Private schools are given the option to opt out of the concealed carry laws, under the wording of the legislation.
“A private or independent institution of higher learning…may establish rules, regulations, or other provisions prohibiting license holders from carrying handguns on the campus of this institution,” reads the legislation found on texas.gov.
Who can carry handguns on campus?
“Campus carry is limited to those with a lawfully issued License to Carry a Handgun,” reads the official TAMUK frequently asked questions on the subject. In order to be issued a license, the individual must complete firearms safety and training courses, have a criminal record clear of felony convictions and be over 21 years of age.
In light of recent tragedies related to mass shootings in the United States, it is possible that this law exists to give gun holders the peace of mind or tools needed to prevent such attacks from happening. Conversely, one may argue that the presence of more guns on campuses will only increase the likelihood that such shootings may occur, as even a licensed gun owner is not without fault and may draw their firearm during a heated moment. It is difficult, to say the least, how to predict the impacts of such legislation when such a situation arises. But, it is imperative as a society to place a degree of trust in those with legally obtained firearms to do the right thing.