According to a recent article published in The Florida Times Union, Florida’s Republican-led Legislature is keeping alive Senate Bill 176 that would allow people with concealed weapons permits to carry guns on 12 state university campuses.
As the concern for student safety being the driving force behind this bill, many people - including students, faculty members, and even campus police chiefs - oppose the bill, feeling that allowing concealed weapons on campus would make things worse.
Senator Audrey Gibson voted “no” as well. Gibson believes that the final vote should be in the universities’ hands.
“I don’t think we need mini-militias on our university campuses,” she stated.
Voting for the bill to pass, Criminal Justice Chairman Greg Evers says that “If you have one victim, that’s one too many.” He goes on to say that he feels “we must allow people the opportunity to protect themselves.”
More information about SB 176 - including official bill text, analyses, and vote history - can be found on The Florida Senate’s website.
Senator Audrey Gibson voted “no” as well. Gibson believes that the final vote should be in the universities’ hands.
“I don’t think we need mini-militias on our university campuses,” she stated.
Voting for the bill to pass, Criminal Justice Chairman Greg Evers says that “If you have one victim, that’s one too many.” He goes on to say that he feels “we must allow people the opportunity to protect themselves.”
More information about SB 176 - including official bill text, analyses, and vote history - can be found on The Florida Senate’s website.
Where Do You Stand?
As a parent, student, police officer, or Florida citizen, how do you feel about the “Guns on Campus” bill? Is there any evidence you feel would support voting for or against it?