FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, April 27, 2016
STEPHENVILLE, Texas—The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents today approved Tarleton State University’s recommendations on how to implement “campus carry” (Senate Bill 11) passed last spring by the Texas Legislature.
In accordance with state law, Tarleton will allow the licensed carry of concealed handguns beginning Aug. 1. However, certain locations on the Stephenville campus—such as the Child Development Center and premises where a collegiate sporting event is taking place—have been designated as not permissible for concealed carry, as the law allows.
“This is a serious issue,” said President F. Dominic Dottavio. “We believe our Campus Carry Council has come up with the best rules and procedures to implement Senate Bill 11 and maintain campus safety, and those rules have now been approved by the Regents. The Tarleton council—made of faculty, staff, students and alumni—conducted several forums to hear the thoughts and ideas of our campus community.”
To obtain a concealed carry license an individual must be at least age 21, must obtain a Certificate of Training and pass a criminal history background check by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). The certificate requires four to six hours of classroom instruction, passing a written examination and a proficiency shooting demonstration conducted in Texas by an instructor certified by the DPS.
Previously, concealed carry has been permitted on campus, but not inside buildings. Open carry is not permitted at the university.
“As we move forward, we’ll work with our University Police Department and local law enforcement officers to ensure Tarleton remains a safe and welcoming campus,” Dr. Dottavio said. “We have invested in additional training and resources to assure successful implementation of the legislation.”
For a look at Tarleton’s campus carry rules and all areas designated as not permissible for concealed carry, visit http://www.tamus.edu/campus-carry-rules.
New rules do not prohibit a licensed holder from carrying a concealed handgun in classrooms or residential facilities owned and operated, or leased and operated, by Tarleton.
Tarleton, a member of The Texas A&M University System, provides a student-focused, value-driven educational experience marked by academic innovation and exemplary service, and dedicated to transforming students into tomorrow’s professional leaders. With campuses in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Midlothian and online, Tarleton engages with its communities to provide real-world learning experiences and to address societal needs while maintaining its core values of integrity, leadership, tradition, civility, excellence and service.
#
Contact: Harry Battson
254-968-1620
[email protected]
