Bill to Allow Guns on College Campuses Moves Forward

Florida college students may soon find it legal to pack a pistol along with their books before heading off to class.

House Bill 4005, sponsored by Sarasota Republican Rep. Greg Steube, made it past its first big hurdle Tuesday. The Florida House’s Criminal Justice Subcommittee voted 8-4 to send the measure forward. Democrats were the only dissenters, WPTV.com pointed out.

The proposed law would make it legal for those with valid permits to carry guns on public university and college campuses, the Sun-Sentinel reported. Permit holders will have to be 21 or older or in the military.

The recent tragedy at Florida State University is cited as a reason why such a law is needed.

“What I’m trying to do is prevent further loss of life by giving God-fearing and law-abiding citizens who have gone through background checks the ability to defend themselves and their families,” the Sun-Sentinel quoted Steube as saying.

See Also:

• FSU Gunman Shot, Killed
• FSU Student’s Books Saved Him From Shooter’s Bullets

Opponents say guns and college campuses where student parties and alcohol are in abundance just don’t mix.

The bill still has to move through two more committee votes before heading to the full House. A Senate version has been filed, but it hasn’t been scheduled for a committee hearing as of yet.

What are your thoughts on this? Should the law move forward? Share your opinions by commenting below.

Image via Shutterstock

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