LANSING, Mich. - Addressing a House committee, some university officials denounced a bill that would stop them from prohibiting concealed weapons on campus, The Detroit News reported.
Universities and colleges are exempt from a state law that prohibits local governments from regulating firearms, according to The News, but House Bill 5474 would remove that exemption.
Wayne State University Police Chief Anthony Holz spoke against the change.
"I can't think of a more dangerous combination. Youth, alcohol and a weapon all in close proximity," Holz testified, according to The News.
But WSU medical student Peter Howard testified that he wants the right to carry a concealed weapon as a precaution, saying a friend of his was robbed at gunpoint a year ago, The News reported.
Aside from personal protection, supporters say the exemption should be removed because campus boundaries aren't clear, and people legally allowed to carry a concealed weapon off campus may unintentionally violate the law if they wander within campus limits.
SOURCE:
The Detroit News,
"Gun plan for campuses draws ire," Oct. 21, 2009
FURTHER READING:
Mackinac Center for
Public Policy, Michigan Votes, "2009 House Bill 5474, Preempt firearm
regulation by state colleges and universities," Sept. 25, 2009
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