Arkansas Rep Proposes Campus Carry For State Colleges, Universities
Arkansas Rep Proposes Campus Carry For State Colleges, Universities
On January 15, Arkansas state representative Charlie Collins (R-Fayetteville) proposed legislation to allow faculty and staff at state colleges and universities to carry guns on campus for self-defense.
Known as House Bill 1077, the measure would allow faculty and staff with concealed carry licenses to carry on campus and would not allow colleges or universities to deny their right to do so.
According to Arkansas Matters, Collins proposed a similar bills two years ago, but it allowed college and universities to opt out if they so chose. The opt out was part of a compromise to get the bill through a house and senate where where Democrats–particularly then-governor Mike Beebe (D)–had to be placated.
However, following the November 4 midterm elections Republicans control the Arkansas house, senate, and Governor’s office.
Arkansas News reports HB 1077 does contain an opt out option for private schools.