Governor Nathan Deal is calling on Georgia lawmakers to address concerns in the newly-passed campus carry act that would allow weapons on college campuses across the state.
Deal’s office released a statement Monday that said he felt “legitimate concerns” have been raised about the bill that passed the Senate Friday and headed to his desk for signature. He indicated he could refuse to sign the bill and asked them to address the concerns before the close of the legislative session — scheduled for March 24.
“As a lifetime defender and staunch supporter of Second Amendment rights, Gov. Deal has signed every pro-gun bill to reach his desk,” the release said. “However, he believes legitimate points have been made in regards to certain aspects of the ‘campus carry’ bill and he calls on the General Assembly to address these concerns in related legislation before Sine Die.
“Specifically, these areas of concern include dually enrolled k-12 students who leave school to attend classes at a university or technical college campus, as well as daycare centers on these same campuses. Deal also believes the governing boards of universities and technical colleges should have the discretion to set reasonable rules regarding disciplinary hearings and faculty and administrative offices. Addressing these issues is an important step in ensuring the safety and freedoms of students, faculty and staff in our institutions of higher learning throughout our state.”
The bill, as passed by lawmakers, would allow licensed gun owners who are 21 and older to carry concealed weapons on public college campuses, except at athletic facilities and student housing, including fraternity and sorority houses.
Senators debated more than two hours before passing the bill. Most of the debate was by those who opposed the bill, voicing concern that students would be less safe with weapons on campuses. They also questioned the lack of provisions exempting day care centers in campuses — and even offered an amendment. However, the legislation passed by a more than two-to-one vote with no amendments.
The bill passed despite strong opposition from Chancellor Hank Huckaby, and a number of presidents from colleges and universities across the state. Georgia Tech students have also voiced their opposition to the measure. Huckaby had asked lawmakers to allow campus security to police and protect their campuses.
With the Governor’s signature, Georgia would the ninth state to allow campus carry, with more than 20 others allowing individual schools to decide.
HB 859 also would mandate that those weapons be concealed — something proponents say makes it safer — since Georgia requires gun owners to apply for carry permits that include fingerprinting and background checks.
