Campus Carry Implementation
The 2015 Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 11 allowing those with a concealed handgun license to carry their firearms in college buildings beginning August 1, 2017.
Senate Bill 11 allows colleges to establish their own rules as to where concealed handguns can be carried on campus and how they are to be stored based on public safety concerns. Certain areas of campus, including some events, can be designed as “gun-free zones.” At no time does the law, current or Senate Bill 11, allow for open carry of firearms on college campuses.
The delayed implementation of SB11 allows Central Texas College District to proceed deliberately, with the best interests of staff, faculty and our students in mind. Our priority, as always, is to keep Central Texas College District students and employees safe, while complying with state and federal laws. A committee has been formed to work through the details for timely implementation. Look for updates on the website as Central Texas College District moves forward to implement the requirements of Senate Bill 11.
Until August 1, 2017, it remains against Texas law to carry any handgun or other weapon on college premises. And, in accordance with Texas Penal Code Ch. 46, it is a felony to intentionally, knowingly or recklessly possess a firearm, illegal knife or prohibited weapon (with or without a concealed handgun license) on the physical premises of a school or educational institution, including any buildings or passenger transportation vehicles under the direct control of the educational institution. Additionally, no person, while on premises controlled or owned by the Central Texas College District, shall store or carry a weapon. A weapon is defined as a manufactured device designed to injure or kill another being, or a device designed to look like a weapon. Anyone who possesses an item or material in violation of this policy or state or federal laws, will be subject to the criminal penalties under those laws and/or discipline under the Central Texas College policies and procedures as warranted.
2017 Campus Carry Implementation Overview
