Signed by Gov. Greg Abbott this summer, Senate Bill 11 allows individuals with a concealed handgun license to carry a handgun while on Texas public university campuses as long as the weapon is not visible. License holders must:
- be 21 years old, unless they are active duty military and police officers
- meet federal qualifications to own a gun
- receive training from an instructor certified by the Texas Department of Public Safety
The law allowing concealed carry on university campuses goes into effect on Aug. 1, 2016. It also recognizes that Texas’ public universities are unique and will need to develop campus carry policies that are appropriate for their respective campuses.
Between now and August 1, 2016, UT Health Science Center is exploring specific rules, regulations and procedures related to campus carry and develop policies that could include items such as identifying potential gun-free zones, creating appropriate signage, determining if and where lock-boxes or storage units should be installed, and conducting public education programs.