College decision time is fast approaching! High school seniors are receiving their college acceptances, and they’ll soon be making their decision.
Campus gun policies should be part of the college decision–since some states now force colleges and universities to allow concealed guns on campus. These laws–sponsored by the gun lobby–were passed despite the strong opposition of college presidents and faculty. Concealed carry on campus poses real dangers for student safety, since more guns = more shootings. College faculty members also fear that guns in the classroom will threaten free speech and limit intellectual discussion in the classroom.
Check out the map below from www.armedcampuses.org about state campus gun policies, and consider avoiding the red states–they force colleges to allow the carrying of firearms on their premises (i.e. campus grounds, classrooms, dormitories, or parking lots).
Guns on Campus: State Policies
Click here for an interactive version of the map with links to specific state policies.
Map key:
RED = Concealed guns allowed by law
GREY = Concealed guns allowed by law, but schools limit locations/who carries
GREEN = Concealed guns on campus prohibited by law
YELLOW = Schools decide weapons policy
ORANGE = Concealed guns allowed only in locked cars in parking lots
Find out more about this issue:
- “How Guns Could Censor College Classrooms,” The Atlantic, March 4, 2016
- “Guns on Campus,” Everytown for Gun Safety, July 9, 2015
- “University of Texas Dean Resigns Over Campus Carry Concerns,” USA Today, February 28, 2016
