Local colleges react to ‘guns on campus’ bill

JACKSON, Tenn. — Schools react after state lawmakers passed a bill this week that would allow employees with handgun carry permits to be armed on campuses of the state’s public colleges and universities.

“It’s not something that we really want to see happen,” Jackson State Community College Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator John McCommon said.

McCommon said they feel the legislation comes with challenges. “Our biggest concern I think is not knowing the level of experience with certain people, them knowing how to act at a time of distress,” he said.

Gov. Bill Haslam raised concerns about the measure because it did not give institutions the opportunity to opt out.

Blake Monroe, a sophomore, said he would feel safer if faculty had guns on campus but with some reservations. “I think that possibly the certification should go just a little bit further than your average carry permit,” he said.

McCommon said they are also concerned about accidents and what would happen if law enforcement had to respond to an active shooter on campus. “A good guy could inadvertently be shot because if they see a gun,” McCommon said.

The University of Tennessee at Martin released a statement.

“While disappointed with the legislation because we don’t see a need for more guns on campus, we’re encouraged by the specific limitations on where employees may carry and the requirement to notify and register with campus law enforcement,” UT Martin Interim Chancellor Dr. Bob Smith said in the statement. “UT Martin is fortunate to have a highly trained and effective university police department. We’re confident in the ability of our officers to uphold the law and maintain campus safety.”

Republican Rep. Andy Holt of Dresden sponsored the bill. Holt said employees could not bring weapons to stadiums or gymnasiums, hospitals, school-sponsored events, or meetings where disciplinary or tenure issues are being discussed.

The bill now goes to the governor’s desk for approval.