The University of Texas has announced they will allow concealed handguns under new state law.
On August 1st, 2016, a state campus carry law will go into effect allowing people people 21 and older with a a concealed handgun licence to carry weapon in classrooms.
Texas universities had previously been gun-free zones under the state’s previous handgun laws.
“I do not believe handguns belong on a university campus, so this decision has been the greatest challenge of my presidency to date,” University of Texas President Greg Fenves said.
The new policies also include gun exclusion zones, such as laboratories and patient healthcare areas.
Classrooms will not be included in the gun exclusions zones.
Governor Greg Abbott has said the law could prevent mass shootings because someone with a licensed concealed weapon could be on campus ready to confront them.
Fenves said he also heard complaints from students, parents and alumni.
‘As a professor, I understand the deep concerns raised by so many. However, as president, I have an obligation to uphold the law,’ he said.
