- March 1, 2016

Concordia Last of Private Austin Universities to Opt Out of Campus Carry Law

Concordia University Texas has opted out of campus carry laws, President Dr. Donald Christian announced in a press release, according to Fox 7. “University leadership believes concealed handguns on campus present significant concerns and are not conducive to a positive learning environment,” Christian wrote in the statement.

Senate Bill 11 was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on June 1, 2015. This “campus carry” law will go into effect on August 1, 2016, allowing licensed handgun owners to carry a handgun while on the campuses of Texas Universities. Private universities, however, have the option to opt out of the bill, which is exactly what Concordia has done after consulting with faculty, staff, and students. Austin’s Huston-Tillotson and St. Edward’s Universities have also opted out, per a list from The Texas Tribune.