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Guns in schools are an unnecessary and significant threat to the safety of children and college students.

Schools should be a safe haven from the violence that touches so many Americans, yet many states lack proper legal protection against the presence of firearms in schools. Dangerous gaps in gun-free schools laws, like concealed carry exceptions, threaten the safety of children and increase the likelihood of tragic school shootings. Meanwhile, the gun lobby’s efforts to force colleges and universities to allow guns on campuses poses a threat to the safety of post-secondary students and educators.

Background

Guns have no place in our nation’s schools. The tragedies that took place at Sandy Hook,1 Robb Elementary,2 Columbine,3 Marjory Stoneman Douglas,4 Virginia Tech,5 and other schools across the US6 demonstrate the devastating effect guns have on our school communities. Calls to arm teachers or to allow college students to carry guns will only lead to more gun deaths and injuries, not fewer. By contrast, laws that prohibit guns in schools and impose harsh penalties for gun possession help keep students and educators safe. The presence of guns in higher education classrooms also burdens the First Amendment right to academic freedom of speech—guns can impede the candid discourse that is critical to the collegiate experience. Allowing guns on campus poses a grave threat to people employed by schools as well, making the workplace more dangerous for university staff and faculty.

Reducing Gun Violence at K–12 Schools

Shootings at K–12 schools shock us because schools are generally safe havens from the gun violence that is so prevalent elsewhere. A report issued by the US Departments of Education and Justice found that between 1992 and 2006, at least 50 times as many murders of young people ages 5–18 occurred away from school than at school.7 In addition, at least 140 times as many youth suicides occurred off school property than at school.8 During the 2010-11 school year, there was about one homicide or suicide of a school-age youth at school per 3.5 million enrolled students.9

Federal and state laws ensuring that schools are gun-free zones have helped make K–12 schools even safer, significantly reducing gun violence in these places. School-associated student homicide rates decreased after the federal laws restricting guns within 1,000 feet of schools were adopted in the early 1990s,10 and fewer students are carrying guns.11

Proposals offered by the gun lobby to arm teachers and repeal gun-free school zones laws are dangerous and counter-productive.12 There is no reason to believe such proposals will help curb those rare instances of gun violence at school. Teachers are not trained law enforcement officers—their purpose is to be educators and role models. Further, the gun lobby’s claim that “gun-free zones” invite mass shootings has been thoroughly debunked by research showing that the overwhelming majority—nearly 90%—of all high-fatality gun massacres since 1966 have occurred wholly or partly in locations where civilian guns were allowed or there was armed security or law enforcement present.13

Gun violence prevention measures for our schools should focus on educating kids and parents about the dangers of firearms and importance of safe storage, rather than on arming teachers. A study of 37 school shootings in 26 states found that in nearly two-thirds of the incidents, the attacker got the gun from his or her own home or that of a relative.14 For more information about the safe storage of firearms, see our summaries on Safe Storage and Child Access Prevention.

Protecting College Students from Gun Homicide and Suicide

America’s college and university campuses are also generally safe havens from gun violence.15 As described below, in most states, legislators or the governing bodies of higher education institutions have prohibited or significantly restricted gun possession on most or all areas of public college and university campuses.16 Moreover, as described in the summary on the Minimum Age to Purchase & Possess, students under age 21 may not carry handguns on campus in many states because they are prohibited from possessing handguns.

As a result of these laws, few students have access to guns on campus, ensuring that colleges and universities remain safe learning environments:

  • Less than 2% of college students report being threatened with a gun while at school.17
  • There were 20,958 total gun homicides in the US in 2021,18 but only 25 total murders or non-negligent homicides on college campuses.19
  • Violent crime for college students age 18–24 declined significantly between 1995 and 2002.20
  • Students living on college campuses are less likely to be victimized than when living off-campus—over 90% of victimizations occur off-campus.21

Allowing guns on campus would likely lead to more campus homicides and suicides. Young adults between the ages of 18–25 experience the highest rate of serious mental illness.22 Between 9% and 11% of college students seriously considered suicide in the previous school year,23 and about 1,100 college students die by suicide each year.24 When a gun enters this mix, a suicide attempt becomes considerably more lethal, as 85% of gun suicide attempts are fatal.25

Gun-owning college students also have a greater propensity for engaging in risky, sometimes violent, behavior. A 2002 study from the Journal of American College Health found that students who owned guns were more likely than non-gun-owning students to binge drink and then engage in risky activities “such as driving when under the influence of alcohol, vandalizing property, and having unprotected intercourse.”26

These facts belie any need for students, faculty, and visitors to carry guns on campus—for self-defense or any other reason.27 There is no credible statistical evidence to suggest that students carrying guns, particularly concealed handguns, will reduce violence on our college campuses. Instead, evidence suggests that permissive concealed gun carrying generally will increase crime and place students at risk.28 Guns on campus pose additional concerns as well, including greater likelihood of gun thefts,29 and increased liability and public relations costs for schools.30 Forcing guns onto America’s college campuses also inhibits the free exchange of ideas in the classroom by making students and faculty feel less safe to express controversial views.31

In seeking to force higher education institutions to allow guns on campus, the gun lobby has recently argued that college-aged women should be able to carry concealed firearms to defend themselves against sexual assault. This position ignores clear evidence that “campus carry” laws will not make women safer from sexual violence.32 To the contrary, after campus carry policies took effect in Utah and Colorado, crimes committed on or near college campuses in those states, including forcible rapes, increased (during a time period when the nationwide rate of sexual assaults decreased).33 As survivors of sexual assault and groups like the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence have observed, allowing guns on campus won’t make women safer, but will give women and other students more reason to fear potentially armed predators and rapists.34 And all students likewise would have good reason to fear that introducing guns onto college campuses will lead to more homicides, suicides, and gun accidents, decreasing campus safety overall.

Summary of Federal Law

No federal law restricts guns on college or university campuses. Two federal laws regulate the possession of firearms in or near K-12 schools:

1)   the Gun-Free Schools Act (which requires some K-12 schools to expel students found with guns).

2)   the Gun-Free School Zones Act (which deems K-12 schools to be “gun-free zones”). However, the federal law deeming K-12 schools to be gun-free zones has a dangerous loophole: it doesn’t apply to individuals licensed by a state to possess or carry a handgun.

Federal Law Prohibits Guns at K-12 Schools – With Dangerous Exceptions

The Gun-Free School Zones Act (GFSZA) prohibits any person from knowingly possessing a firearm that has moved in or otherwise affects interstate or foreign commerce at a place the individual knows, or has reasonable cause to believe, is a school zone.35 The GFSZA defines “school zone” as:

  1. In, or on the grounds of, a public, parochial or private school that provides elementary or secondary education
  2. Within a distance of 1,000 feet from the grounds of a public, parochial or private school that provides elementary or secondary education36

However, the federal prohibition against possessing a gun in a school zone does not apply to people licensed by a state or locality to possess a gun.37 This exception covers many people licensed to possess firearms or to carry concealed firearms.38 In addition, the federal GFSZA allows firearm possession in school zones if:

  • The firearm is unloaded and “in a locked container, or a locked firearms rack that is on a motor vehicle,”39
  • The firearm is possessed for use in a program approved by a school, or in accordance with a contract entered into between a school and the individual or an employer of the individual.40

Federal Law Requires K-12 Schools to Expel Students for Gun Possession

The Gun-Free Schools Act (GFSA) was enacted in 1994 as a response to increasing levels of gun violence in schools.41 Unlike the GFSZA, which applies to any person possessing a firearm in the defined prohibited areas, the GFSA focuses on student behavior, penalizing students to deter them from bringing firearms to school.42

The current GFSA, effective as of 2002, requires that states receiving certain federal funds require local educational agencies to expel students from school for a minimum period of one year if they bring a firearm to school or possess one at school.43 The GFSA also requires that, in order to receive federal funds, each local educational agency must:

  1. Refer any student who brings a firearm to a school served by the agency to the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system44
  2. Annually provide an assurance that the local educational agency is in compliance with the state expulsion law45
  3. Annually provide a description of the circumstances surrounding any expulsions imposed under the state expulsion law46

The GFSA expressly permits firearm possession if the gun is lawfully stored inside a locked vehicle on school property, or if the gun is possessed for a school activity approved and authorized by the local educational agency (if appropriate safeguards have been adopted to ensure student safety).47 The GFSA also allows states to permit the chief administering officer of a local educational agency to modify an expulsion for a student, in writing, on a case-by-case basis.48 To date, the GFSA has not been challenged.

SUPPORT GUN SAFETY

We’re in this together. To build a safer America—one where children and parents in every neighborhood can learn, play, work, and worship without fear of gun violence—we need you standing beside us in this fight.

Executive Orders Responding to Shootings at K-12 Schools

In the aftermath of the Newtown shootings, in 2013, President Obama issued a series of executive orders focusing on firearms and ammunition regulation, mental health issues, and school shootings. A few of these orders deal directly with safety in K-12 schools:

  • The Departments of Justice and Homeland Security have been directed to provide continuing training and security assessments for law enforcement, first responders, and school officials on active shooter situations.49
  • The Departments of Education, Justice, Homeland Security, and Health and Human Services have developed model emergency management planning guides to help schools prepare for shootings.50

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has made Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Grants available to fund school resource officers.51 In September 2013, DOJ announced the awarding of 263 COPS Hiring Grants totaling approximately $125 million, including around $45 million to fund 356 new school resource officer positions.52

Summary of State Law

Guns in K–12 Schools

As described above, federal law prohibits guns on K–12 campuses generally but exempts people with concealed carry permits from the prohibition. Nearly all states prohibit concealed carry permit holders from carrying firearms in K–12 schools, however. Notwithstanding these prohibitions, even in states where carry by permittees is prohibited, many states allow schools to grant individualized permission to permit holders to carry. A little over a quarter of states allow individuals with concealed carry permits to carry loaded firearms in their vehicles despite the prohibition on guns on campus.

Guns in K-12 Schools: Parents and Members of the General Public
StateUnder state law, can members of the general public carry? (Federal law prohibits carry at schools by people without carry permits)53Under state law, can the school give people permission to carry (unrelated to educational programs)? 54
Under state law, are people with ccw permits allowed to keep loaded, unlocked guns in on-campus vehicles? 55
AlabamaNo (see footnote for details)56No57
No58
AlaskaNo59Yes 60
No61
ArizonaNo62No
No
ArkansasNo63Private and religious schools can give CCW permittees permission to carry on school grounds64
Yes65 
CaliforniaNo66No67
No68
ColoradoNo69No
Yes70
ConnecticutNo71Yes72
No
District of ColumbiaNo73No
No
DelawareNo74No
Yes75
FloridaNo76No
Yes, but schools can prohibit77
GeorgiaNo78Yes79
Yes80
HawaiiNo81No82
No83
IdahoNo84Yes85
Yes, when “delivering” students or school staff to school86
IllinoisNo87No (see footnote for details)88
Yes89
IndianaNo90, however CCW permittees can carry in houses of worship on school grounds unless the school specifically prohibits it91Yes92
Yes93
IowaNo94Yes95
No96
KansasYes, with a concealed carry permit97Yes98
Yes99
KentuckyNo100Yes101
Yes102
LouisianaNo103Yes104
Yes105
MaineNo106No107
No108
MarylandNo109No110
No111
MassachusettsNo112Yes113
No114
MichiganYes, can openly carry firearms with a concealed carry license 115Yes116
No117
MinnesotaNo118Yes119
Yes120
MississippiYes, people with enhanced CCW permits may carry in public schools but private schools may prohibit.121No122
Yes123
MissouriNo124Yes125
Yes126
MontanaNo127Yes128
No129
NebraskaNo130No131
Yes132
NevadaNo133Yes134
No135
New HampshireYes (but federal law restricts carry on campus by people who do not have concealed carry permits)136N/A
Yes137
New JerseyNo138Yes139
No140
New MexicoNo for public schools141
No relevant law for non-public schools
No for public schools
No relevant law for non-public schools
Yes, for people 20 and older on public school grounds142
No relevant law for non-public schools
New YorkNo143No144
No145
North CarolinaNo146No147
No148
North DakotaNo149No150
Yes151
OhioYes, if the person has permission, been background checked, and taken the required training. 152Yes, if the person has permission, been background checked, and taken the required training. 153
Yes, if the person has permission, been background checked, and taken the required training. 154
OklahomaNo155Yes, for private schools only156
Yes157
OregonYes, with a concealed carry license but schools may prohibit.158Yes159
Yes160
PennsylvaniaNo (see footnote for more information)161No162
No163
Rhode IslandNo164No165
No166
South CarolinaNo167Yes168
No, with minor exception for people with concealed weapons permits169
South DakotaNo, however this prohibition does not apply in private schools170
No171
No172
TennesseeNo173No for public schools; Yes for private schools174
Yes175
TexasNo176Yes177
Yes178
UtahYes, with a concealed carry permit179Yes180
Yes, if the vehicle is “under [a] person’s control”181
Vermont182No183Yes184
No185
VirginiaNo186No187
Yes188
WashingtonNo189No190
Yes191
West VirginiaNo192No for public schools
Yes for private schools193
Yes(W. Va. Code § 61-7-11a.))
WisconsinNo194No195
No196
WyomingPeople with concealed carry permits may not carry concealed, but no statute prohibits them from open carrying.197No relevant statute
No relevant statute

Other common exceptions include:

  • Federal law allows gun possession by a person without a concealed carry permit within a residence, place of business, or other private property that lies within a school zone but is not part of the school grounds or property
  • Guns possessed for hunting or safety courses, school-authorized sports, ceremonial, or recreation activities, or military or peace officer training
  • Guns possessed while hunting on school grounds or traversing school grounds to access hunting lands during hunting season
  • Carry of firearms in places of worship located on the grounds of private religious schools

Armed Security, Teachers, & Staff

Guns in K–12 schools make students, teachers, and staff less safe, but following school shootings, the gun lobby predictably calls for more guns in schools. In some states, school security who are not trained law enforcement are allowed to carry and approximately half of states allow teachers or other school employees with concealed carry permits to carry firearms on school grounds, with or without individualized permission. 


Guns in K–12 Schools: Security, Teachers, and Staff
StateDoes state law allow non-law enforcement school security to carry?198Does state law allow carry by teachers?
Does state law allow carry by other school employees?
AlabamaNo (see footnote for detail) 199No (see footnote for details)200
No (see footnote for details)201
AlaskaYes, with permission from the school202Yes, with permission from the school203
Yes, with permission from the school204
ArizonaMaybe, when used in a program approved by the school205Maybe, when used in a program approved by the school206
Maybe, when used in a program approved by the school207
ArkansasYes208Private and religious schools can grant CCW permittees permission to carry on school grounds209
Private and religious schools can grant CCW permittees permission to carry on school grounds210
CaliforniaYes211No212
No213
ColoradoYes214Yes, in certain circumstances215
Yes, in certain circumstances216
ConnecticutYes, with permission from the school217Yes, with permission from the school218
Yes, with permission from the school219
District of ColumbiaNo relevant statute. Every school must have written rules regarding the possession of firearms on campus.220No221
No222
DelawareNo223No224
No225
FloridaYes226Yes, as part of the school guardian program227
Yes, as part of the school guardian program228
GeorgiaYes229Yes, with permission from the school230
Yes, with permission from the school231
HawaiiYes((Haw. Rev. Stat. § 134-A(b)(4).No232
No233
Idaho234Yes, with permission from the school district235Yes, with permission from the school district236
Yes, with permission from the school district237
IllinoisYes238No239
No240
Indiana241Yes, with permission from the school242Yes, with permission from the school243
Yes, with permission from the school244
Iowa245Yes246Yes, with permission from the school247
Yes, with permission from the school248
Kansas249Yes, with permission from the school250Yes, with permission from the school251
Yes, with permission from the school252
KentuckyYes, with permission from the school253Yes, with permission from the school254
Yes, with permission from the school255
LouisianaYes, in certain circumstances256No257
No258
MaineNo259No260
No261
MarylandYes262No263
No264
MassachusettsYes, with permission from the school265Yes, with permission from the school266
Yes, with permission from the school267
MichiganYes268Yes, with permission from the school269
Yes, with permission from the school270
MinnesotaYes, with permission from the school271Yes, with permission from the school272
Yes, with permission from the school273
MississippiYes274Yes, school districts may designate teachers as school guardians275
Yes, school districts may designate staff as school guardians276
Missouri*Yes, if the person is a licensed “corporate security advisor”277Yes, with permission from the school or the district278
Yes, with permission from the school or the district279
MontanaYes, with permission from the school district280Yes, with permission from the school district281
Yes, with permission from the school district282
NebraskaNo283No284
No285
NevadaYes286Yes, with permission from the school287
Yes, with permission from the school288
New HampshireYes289Yes290
Yes291
New JerseyYes, with permission from the school292Yes, with permission from the school293
Yes, with permission from the school294
New MexicoYes295Generally, no296
Generally, no297
New YorkYes, if the security guard has a “special armed guard registration card”298No299
No300
North CarolinaNo301No302
No303
North DakotaYes304No305
No306
OhioYes307Yes, if the person has permission, been background checked, and taken the required training. 308
Yes, if the person has permission, been background checked, and taken the required training. 309
OklahomaYes, with permission from the board of education310Maybe (see footnote for detail)311
Maybe (see footnote for detail)312
OregonYes, with a concealed carry license313Yes, with a concealed carry license314
Yes, with a concealed carry license315
PennsylvaniaMaybe316Maybe317
Maybe318
Rhode IslandNo (see footnote for details) 319No (see footnote for details) 320
No (see footnote for details) 321
South CarolinaYes, with permission from the school322Yes, with permission from the school323
Yes, with permission from the school324
South DakotaYes, if the person is a school sentinel 325Yes, if the person is a school sentinel 326
Yes, if the person is a school sentinel 327
TennesseeYes328No in most public schools329
Yes, with permission from the school for private schools330
No in most public schools331
Yes, with permission from the school for private schools332
TexasYes, if the person is a designated school marshal or another person authorized to provide school security333Yes, if the person is a designated school marshal or another person authorized to provide school security334
Yes, if the person is a designated school marshal or another person authorized to provide school security335
UtahYes, with a concealed carry permit336Yes, with a concealed carry permit337
Yes, with a concealed carry permit338
VermontYes, with permission from the school339Yes, with permission from the school340
Yes, with permission from the school341
VirginiaNo, at public schools342
Yes, at private religious schools, with authorization from the school343
No344
No345
WashingtonNo, unless the security officer completes training that is equivalent to the training received by commissioned law enforcement officers346No347
No348
West VirginiaNo349No350
No351
WisconsinNo352No353
No354
WyomingYes, with permission from the school district355Yes, with permission from the school district356
Yes, with permission from the school district357

State Laws on Guns at College and University Campuses

The following table provides an overview of state laws regarding the carrying of firearms on college and university campuses. The strongest laws generally prohibit possession of firearms on all post-secondary school campuses, while weaker laws prohibit firearms on campuses in some, but not all, circumstances.

Student safety is in greatest jeopardy in states that explicitly prevent publicly run colleges and universities from regulating the possession or carrying of firearms on their campuses. 

Unless a state has a law or regulation explicitly prohibiting the carrying or possession of firearms on all post-secondary school property, private colleges and universities generally have broad authority to allow, prohibit, or regulate the possession or carrying of firearms on their property.

In states with no specific laws or regulations regarding firearms on campuses, we have listed the firearms policy of the most populous school in the state. 


Guns on Campuses of Higher Education
StateDoes state law allow firearms on campus?Where can guns be carried or possessed on campus?
AlabamaSchools must allow individuals to keep firearms in their vehicles subject to certain requirements358

The University of Alabama has a policy prohibiting firearms on campus in most situations.359
No relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.
The University of Alabama has a policy prohibiting firearms on campus in most situations.360
AlaskaNo relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.

The board of regents of the University of Alaska has adopted a policy limiting the possession of firearms on campus in most situations, unless the president of a university adopts regulations that provide exceptions.361
No relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.
The board of regents of the University of Alaska has adopted a policy limiting the possession of firearms on campus in most situations, unless the president of a university adopts regulations that provide exceptions.362
ArizonaNo relevant statute. 

State administrative code prohibits the ‘unauthorized’ use, possession, or storage of any weapon on a public university campus.363
No relevant statute.
State administrative code prohibits the ‘unauthorized’ use, possession, or storage of any weapon on a public university campus.364
Arkansas* Firearms are allowed in public schools, if the person carrying has a concealed carry endorsement365“In the buildings and on the grounds,” but not in dormitories or residence halls366
CaliforniaFirearms are not allowed on campus except with written permission from the school367N/A
Colorado*Firearms are allowed at public schools, with a concealed carry permit, but schools may prohibit.368State law does not place any specific restrictions on where concealed carry permittees can carry on campus.
A person can carry a firearm on campus in a private vehicle “for lawful protection…while travelling”369
ConnecticutNo relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.

The University of Connecticut prohibits the possession of firearms on all of its campuses370
No relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.
The University of Connecticut prohibits the possession of firearms on all of its campuses371
DelawareNo relevant statute. Every school must have written rules regarding the possession of firearms on campus.372

The University of Delaware prohibits the possession, storage, or use of any guns, firearms, or ammunition on University property, including any land, building, or vehicle that the University owns, leases, rents, occupies, operates or controls, unless expressly authorized by the University of Delaware Police Department. The Chief of Police may grant permission on a case-by-case basis to an individual.373
No relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.
The University of Delaware prohibits the use and possession of firearms on campus without prior authorization. 374
District of ColumbiaPeople with concealed carry licenses are prohibited from carrying handguns at colleges and universities375People with concealed carry licenses are prohibited from carrying handguns at colleges and universities376
FloridaWith minor exceptions for guns in vehicles, firearms are not allowed on campuses.377Firearms are generally not allowed anywhere on campuses, except for CCW permittees in vehicles378
Georgia*Firearms are allowed at public schools.379“In any building or on real property owned by or leased to any… public institution of postsecondary education.” 
However, people may not carry in certain specified buildings, including those used for athletic events or student housing.380
HawaiiNo381Firearms are prohibited in and on “the campus or premises of any public or private community college, college, or university, and adjacent parking areas, including buildings, classrooms, laboratories, research facilities, artistic venues, and athletic fields or venues.”
IdahoFirearms are allowed at public schools with a concealed carry permit.382Concealed carry is allowed everywhere on public school campuses, except for within a dormitory or residence hall, or within a public entertainment facility with proper signage declaring the firearm restriction.383
IllinoisGenerally, no firearms are allowed on college and university campuses384FOID card holders can transport firearms in vehicles if the firearm is in a non-functioning state, or unloaded and enclosed.385
IndianaNo relevant statute.386 Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.

Indiana University has a policy generally prohibiting the possession of firearms on university property.387
No relevant statute.388 Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.
Indiana University has a policy generally prohibiting the possession of firearms on university property.389
IowaNo relevant statute. However, a state regulation generally prohibits the possession of firearms on public school campuses.390 N/A
Kansas*Concealed carry is allowed on public university campuses.391Firearms are allowed in any “any public area of any state or municipal building” unless the building has “adequate security measures” to prevent the carrying of weapons into the building.392
KentuckyKentucky law allows colleges and Universities to regulate the possession of deadly weapons on their property.393

The University of Kentucky generally prohibits the possession of deadly weapons on university property, except for in vehicles.394
Kentucky law allows colleges and Universities to regulate the possession of deadly weapons on their property.395
The University of Kentucky generally prohibits the possession of deadly weapons on university property, except for in vehicles.396
LouisianaWith some exceptions, firearms are prohibited on college and university campuses.397With some exceptions, firearms are prohibited on college and university campuses.398
MaineMaine law allows colleges and Universities to regulate the possession of deadly weapons on their property.399

The University of Maine generally prohibits wearing, displaying, using, or possessing weapons on campus.400
Maine law allows colleges and Universities to regulate the possession of deadly weapons on their property.401
The University of Maine generally prohibits wearing, displaying, using, or possessing weapons on campus.402
MarylandNo (Effective October 1, 2023.)403
N/A
MassachusettsFirearms are generally prohibited on college and university campuses.404Firearms are generally prohibited on college and university campuses.405
MichiganSchools have the authority to regulate firearms on campus. 

The University of Michigan prohibits the possession of firearms on campus.406
Even at schools that allow firearms on campus, concealed carry permittees cannot carry firearms in dormitories or classrooms.407
MinnesotaSchools are expressly authorized to regulate the possession of firearms on campus by students and employees, with some limitations408

The University of Minnesota generally prohibits the possession of firearms on campus, except for lawful storage within a vehicle.409
Schools have the authority to regulate the possession of firearms on campus by students and employees, but schools may not prohibit lawful possession of firearms in a parking facility or parking area.410
Mississippi*Firearms are allowed on public college and university campuses with an enhanced concealed carry permit.411

Private schools are free to prohibit firearms on campus if they choose to.412.)
People with enhanced concealed carry permits are generally authorized to carry in public areas on campus, although public  universities may by administrative rule limit students and employees from possessing firearms.413  
Private schools are free to prohibit firearms on campus if they choose to.414
MissouriWith minor exceptions, Missouri generally prohibits the possession of firearms on college and university campuses.415Missouri allows firearms to be possessed within vehicles on campuses.416
MontanaSubject to several exceptions, a Montana law prohibits the Board of Regents and any unit of the university system from regulating, restricting, or placing an undue burden on the possession, transportation, or storage of firearms on or within university system property by a person eligible to possess a firearm under state or federal law.417 This law, however, was declared unconstitutional and permanently enjoined on November 30, 2021 by a state trial court but will be appealed.((418Anywhere on university system property, subject to certain conditions.419
NebraskaWith limited exceptions, Firearms are generally prohibited on college and university property.420People with concealed handgun permits can possess firearms in vehicles on campus.421
NevadaNevada generally prohibits the possession of firearms on the Nevada System of Higher Education.422N/A
New HampshireNo relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.

The University of New Hampshire generally prohibits the possession of firearms on its ‘core campuses’.423
No relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.
New JerseyNew Jersey generally prohibits the possession of firearms on the campus of a college or university.424N/A
New MexicoWith minor exceptions, firearm carrying is prohibited on university premises.425Persons over the age of 19 may carry firearms in private vehicles “for lawful protection of the person’s or another’s person or property” on campuses.426
New YorkWith minor exceptions, firearm carrying is prohibited on college or university premises.427N/A
North CarolinaWIth limited exceptions, firearms are generally prohibited on college and university campuses.428People with concealed handgun permits can possess firearms in vehicles on campus.429
North DakotaNo relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses, except in private vehicles.430

The University of North Dakota prohibits firearms in UND buildings and at ‘public gatherings’ on campus.431 
No relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses, except in private vehicles.432
The University of North Dakota prohibits firearms in UND buildings and at ‘public gatherings’ on campus.433
OhioWith some exceptions, concealed carry is generally prohibited on college and university campuses (However, schools can adopt policies which authorize certain individuals or classes of individuals to carry on campus.)434People with concealed handgun permits can possess firearms in vehicles on campus.435
OklahomaWith certain exceptions, firearms are generally prohibited on college and university campuses.436People with concealed handgun permits can possess firearms in vehicles on campus.437
Schools can choose to designate certain areas on campus as allowing concealed carry.438
Oregon*State law allows people with concealed carry permits to carry in open areas on public school campuses, however, schools may prohibit this.439
People with concealed carry permits can carry in open areas on public school campuses. However, schools may prohibit.440
PennsylvaniaNo relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.

Pennsylvania State University generally prohibits firearms on all University property.441
No relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.
Pennsylvania State University generally prohibits firearms on all University property.442
Rhode IslandNo relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.

The University of Rhode Island prohibits students from possessing firearms on campus.443
No relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.
The University of Rhode Island prohibits students from possessing firearms on campus.444
South CarolinaFirearms are generally prohibited on college and university campuses.445State law does not prohibit CCW permit holders from possessing firearms in closed containers within motor vehicles on campus.446
South DakotaNo relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.

With limited exceptions, the University of South Dakota prohibits the possession of firearms on campus.447
No relevant statute. Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses.
At the University of South Dakota allows the storage of firearms out of view in locked vehicles on campus. The school also allows students and guests to store firearms at the University Police Department storage facility.448
Tennessee*Firearms are generally prohibited on college and university campuses. However, any public school employee with an enhanced handgun carry permit can carry a concealed handgun on campus.449

Private schools are free to adopt policies either allowing or prohibiting the carrying of firearms on campus.450
Tennessee allows non-students to possess firearms in vehicles on campus.451
Certain location restrictions apply to school employees with enhanced carry permits who choose to carry on campus. They cannot carry in stadiums, gymnasiums and auditoriums; in meetings regarding disciplinary matters or tenure issues; or in hospitals or offices where medical or mental health services are provided.452
Texas*Public colleges and universities cannot generally prohibit people with concealed carry licenses from carrying on campus. They are, however, authorized to establish reasonable rules and regulations regarding concealed carry on campus.453

Private schools may adopt policies prohibiting carry on campus, but only after consulting with students, staff, and faculty. However, if they do not adopt a policy prohibiting campus carry, then it is allowed by default.454
Public schools cannot generally prohibit concealed handgun license holders from carrying on campus but may adopt reasonable rules or regulations that restrict them from doing so in certain locations.455
Utah*Public schools cannot generally prohibit carry by people who are licensed to carry a concealed firearm.456Public schools can designate one secure area as a hearing room, where firearms can be excluded.457
VermontSchools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses. (See footnote for more detail)458

The University of Vermont generally prohibits the possession of weapons on campus.459
Schools are free to regulate firearms on their campuses. 
The University of Vermont generally prohibits the possession of weapons on campus.460
VirginiaPublic schools may not prohibit carry by members of the general public in open areas on campus. However, public colleges and universities may still restrict concealed carry by students and employees and in certain areas.461Firearms are generally allowed on public school campuses by law, but schools can restrict carry in areas where people congregate, like buildings or events. ((462)
WashingtonNo relevant statute.

The  Board of Regents of the University of Washington has adopted an administrative rule banning possession of firearms on campus.463
No relevant statute. 
West VirginiaPublic colleges and universities are not allowed to prohibit concealed carry of handguns by people with concealed carry licenses.464CCW permittees can carry on campus and in buildings generally under the custodial control of the institution. Schools may prohibit carry in certain areas including on-campus residence halls, but not common areas such as lounges, dining areas, and study areas.
Wisconsin*Public schools may not prohibit firearms in open areas. They can, however, prohibit CCW inside buildings if notice is posted.465On public college and university campuses, firearms are allowed in open areas and in buildings without posted notices prohibiting firearms.466
WyomingWyoming generally prohibits concealed carry at college athletic events and in college or university facilities.467
Wyoming allows open and concealed carry on campus as long as it’s not at an athletic event or in a university facility.468

States with an * prohibit at least some schools from regulating campus carry.

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Key Legislative Elements

The features listed below are intended to provide a framework from which policy options may be considered. A jurisdiction considering new legislation should consult with counsel.

  • Establish a gun-free school zone that prohibits the possession or carrying, whether openly or concealed, of any firearm within an elementary or secondary school building, on school property, or within a set distance of school property.
  • Prohibit the possession or carrying, whether openly or concealed, of any firearm within a school bus or other school-provided transportation.
  • Prohibit concealed weapons permit holders from possessing in school buildings, on school property, or within a set distance from school property.
  • Prohibit the possession or carrying, whether open or concealed, of any firearm on public and private college or university campuses, including in campus open areas, in parking lots and vehicles on campus, in buildings and residences, and at sporting events.

  1. On December 14, 2012, a lone gunman killed 20 children and six adults at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut before taking their own life.[]
  2. On May 24, 2022, a lone gunman killed 19 children and two teachers at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas[]
  3. On April 20, 1999, two student gunmen killed 12 students and a teacher at a high school near Denver, Colorado before taking their own life.[]
  4. On February 14, 2018, a lone former-student gunman killed 14 students and 3 staff at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.[]
  5. On April 16, 2007, a lone student gunman killed 32 people, mostly students, at Virginia Tech before taking their own life.[]
  6. Between December 15, 2012 and February 10, 2014, there were at least 44 school shootings in the US – including assault, suicides, and unintentional shootings. Moms Demand Action and Mayors Against Illegal Guns, Analysis of School Shootings, Dec. 15, 2012 – Feb. 10, 2014 (Feb. 12, 2014), http://s3.amazonaws.com/s3.mayorsagainstillegalguns.org/images/SchoolShootingsReport.pdf.[]
  7. US Department of Education & US Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs, Indicators of School Crime and Safety: 2008 (Apr. 2009): 6, http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2009/2009022REV.pdf. Only approximately 1% of all homicides among school-age children happen on school grounds, during school events, or on the way to and from school. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report, School-Associated Student Homicides–United States, 1992-2006 (Jan. 18, 2008), http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5702a1.htm. The same study found that from July 1999 to June 2006, 116 students were killed in 109 separate incidents—an average of 16.5 student homicides each year (an average annual homicide rate of 0.03 per 100,000 students); 65% of those homicides were inflicted by firearms. See also Mark Anderson et al., “School-Associated Violent Deaths in the United States, 1994-1999,” 286 JAMA (Dec. 5, 2001): 2695, 2697-2699, http://pdba.georgetown.edu/Security/citizensecurity/eeuu/documents/school-deaths.pdf.[]
  8. US Department of Education & US Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs, Indicators of School Crime and Safety: 2008 (Apr. 2009), 6, https://nces.ed.gov/pubs2009/2009022REV_1.pdf.[]
  9. US Department of Education & US Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs, Indicators of School Crime and Safety: 2012 (June 2013), 6,  https://nces.ed.gov/pubs2013/2013036.pdf.[]
  10. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report, School-Associated Student Homicides–United States, 1992-2006 (Jan. 18, 2008), http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5702a1.htm. The rates decreased from 0.07 per 100,000 students to 0.03 per 100,000 students. Id.[]
  11. Between 1993 and 1999, the percentage of students who carried a gun, regardless of location, decreased from 8% to 5%. This lower percentage did not change significantly over the years 1999–2007. Danice K. Eaton et al., “Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance – United States, 2007,” Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report (June 6, 2008), http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/ss5704a1.htm (surveying students in grades 9 – 12 about their behaviors throughout 2007).[]
  12. See Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence, No Gun Left Behind: The Gun Lobby’s Campaign to Push Guns Into Colleges and Schools (May 2007), 9-11, 34, https://www.bradycampaign.org/sites/default/files/no-gun-left-behind.pdf. The gun lobby continues to push arming teachers and faculty in elementary and high schools, and seeks to repeal the federal Gun-Free School Zones Act of 1996 that prohibits firearms within 1,000 feet of elementary and high schools. After Newtown, the NRA’s refrain—arm teachers and faculty or have armed guards in every school—was rightly ridiculed. See, e.g., Alec MacGillis, “The NRA’s Emperor Has No Clothes,” New Republic, Dec. 21, 2012, http://www.newrepublic.com/blog/plank/111384/the-nras-emperor-no-clothes-moment; David Weigel, “Wayne LaPierre Wants Armed Guards at Schools. Columbine Had an Armed Guard,” Slate, Dec. 21, 2012, http://www.slate.com/blogs/weigel/2012/12/21/wayne_lapierre_wants_armed_guards_at_schools_columbine_had_an_armed_guard.html; and Jason Linkins, “NRA Leader Wayne LaPierre’s Much-Criticized Sandy Hook Speech Was Actually Quite Effective,” The Huffington Post, Dec. 21, 2012, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/12/21/nra-wayne-lapierre_n_2348277.html.[]
  13. Daniel W. Webster et al., Firearms on College Campuses: Research Evidence and Policy Implications (Oct. 15, 2016), 10-11, http://www.jhsph.edu/research/centers-and-institutes/johns-hopkins-center-for-gun-policy-and-research/_pdfs/GunsOnCampus.pdf. The paper’s authors also note that “when rampage shootings do occur, very rarely are they stopped by gun-wielding civilians.” Id. at 24.[]
  14. United States Secret Service, US Department of the Treasury, Safe School Initiative: An Interim Report on the Prevention of Targeted Violence in Schools (Oct. 2000), 6, https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED447392.pdf. See also Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report, Source of Firearms Used by Students in School-Associated Violent Deaths — United States, 1992—1999 (Mar. 7, 2003), http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5209a1.htm.[]
  15. See Katrina Baum & Patsy Klaus, Office of Justice Programs, US Dept. of Justice, Bureau of Justice Statistics Special Report, National Crime Victimization Survey – Violent Victimization of College Students, 1995-2002 (Jan. 2005), https://www.bjs.gov/content/pub/pdf/vvcs02.pdf.[]
  16. Private colleges are free to regulate their campuses for public safety purposes in conformity with state law. See Thomas L. Harnisch, American Association of State Colleges & Universities, Concealed Weapons on State College Campuses: In Pursuit of Individual Liberty and Collective Security (Nov. 2008), 2, http://www.aascu.org/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=4545.[]
  17. Matthew Miller, David Hemenway & Henry Wechsler, “Guns and Gun Threats at College,” 51 J. Am. Coll. Health (Sept. 2002): 57, 63, http://archive.sph.harvard.edu/cas/Documents/Gunthreats2/gunspdf.pdf (focusing on gun ownership and gun threats on college or university campuses, regardless of whether those schools allowed firearms on campus).[]
  18. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. Underlying Cause of Death 1999-2020 on CDC WONDER Online Database, released in 2021. Data are from the Multiple Cause of Death Files, 1999-2021, as compiled from data provided by the 57 vital statistics jurisdictions through the Vital Statistics Cooperative Program. Accessed on June 21, 2023.[]
  19. Table 329.10 “On-campus crimes, arrests, and referrals for disciplinary action at degree-granting postsecondary institutions, by location of incident, control and level of institution, and type of incident: Selected years, 2001 through 2018.” National Center for Education Statistics https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d20/tables/dt20_329.10.asp.[]
  20. Baum & Klaus, supra note 12, at 1. College students are less likely than non-students to be victims of crime: though crime rates declined for both students and non-students alike, by 2002 only 41 of every 1,000 students were victims of violent crime, while 56 out of 1,000 non-students were victimized that year. Id.[]
  21. Id. at 5.[]
  22. Figure 1. 2019 National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) Releases. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness.[]
  23. “Data Highlights: Seriously Considered Suicide,”American College Health Ass’n, National College Health Assessment, Archived March 10, 2018, https://web.archive.org/web/20180310004934/http://www.achancha.org/data/PHYSMENTAL_3_all.html (providing data from Spring 2000—Spring 2006). See also Jameson K. Hirsch, Jon R. Webb & Elizabeth L. Jeglic, “Forgiveness, Depression, and Suicidal Behavior Among a Diverse Sample of College Students,” 67 J. Clinical Psych. (2011): 1, http://faculty.etsu.edu/hirsch/forgive_dep_suicide.pdf (noting that about 6.4% to 9.5% of college students seriously consider suicide).[]
  24. American Psychiatric Association, College Mental Health & Confidentiality (June 2009), 1, https://www.psychiatry.org/File%20Library/Psychiatrists/Directories/Library-and-Archive/resource_documents/resource-2016-college-mental-health-and-confidentiality.pdf.[]
  25. Sara B. Vyrostek, Joseph L. Annest, George W. Ryan, “Surveillance for Fatal and Nonfatal Injuries – United States, 2001,” Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (Sept. 3, 2004), https://www.cdc.gov/MMWr/preview/mmwrhtml/ss5307a1.htm.[]
  26. Matthew Miller, supra note 14, at 59. The study found that nearly two-thirds of gun-owning students were binge drinkers.[]
  27. For additional information that explains why allowing concealed handguns on campus is a poor choice for self-defense, see the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators, Inc. (IACLEA), IACLEA Position Statement – Concealed Carrying of Firearms Proposals on College Campuses (Aug. 12, 2008) (co-written by the Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence), https://www.okhighered.org/campus-safety/resources/CBP-guns-iaclea-statement.pdf.[]
  28. See, e.g., Ian Ayres & John J. Donohue III, “Shooting Down the ‘More Guns, Less Crime’ Hypothesis,” 55 Stan. L. Rev. (Apr. 2003): 1193, 1285, 1296; and Ian Ayres & John J. Donohue III, “The Latest Misfires in Support of the ‘More Guns, Less Crime’ Hypothesis,” 55 Stan. L. Rev. (Apr. 2003): 1371, 1397.[]
  29. Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence, supra note 9, at 8-9. See also Americans for Gun Safety, Stolen Firearms: Arming the Enemy (Dec. 2002), 1. Once a gun is stolen it is much more likely to be used in subsequent crime.[]
  30. Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence, supra note 9, at 6, 11-13.[]
  31. Id. at 15-17. For additional information on the dangers of allowing guns on campus, see the Students for Gun Free Schools fact sheets, Why Our Campuses are Safer Without Concealed Handguns,  http://dev.keepgunsoffcampus.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/SGFSWhyOurCampuses-Electronic.pdf; and How We Can Prevent Future Tragedieshttp://www.studentsforgunfreeschools.org/HowWeCanPrevent-Electronic.pdf.[]
  32. See David Hemenway & Sara J. Solnick, Epidemiology of Self-Defense Gun Use: Evidence from the National Crime Victimization Surveys 2007–2011 (2015). Data from the National Crime Victimization Survey shows that women almost never successfully fend off a would-be rapist with a firearm—not once in over 300 cases reported between 2007 and 2011 was a firearm used to stop an attempted rape. Id. Moreover, researchers have found that in the vast majority of campus sexual assaults (89%), predators target intoxicated classmates or use drugs and alcohol to incapacitate their victims; it is unlikely an incapacitated or highly intoxicated student could use a gun for self-defense in these situations. C.P. Krebs et al., “College Women’s Experiences with Physically Forced, Alcohol- or Other Drug-Enabled, and Drug-Facilitated Sexual Assault Before and Since Entering College,” J. of Am. College Health (2009): 57(6), 639-649.[]
  33. Evan Defilippis & Devin Hughes, “The Numbers on Arming College Students Show Risks Outweigh Benefits,” The Trace, Nov. 9, 2015, https://www.thetrace.org/2015/11/campus-carry-self-defense-accidental-shootings-research/.[]
  34. See, e.g., National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Concealed Firearms on Campuses Will Not Prevent Sexual Assault (Mar. 2015), http://www.ncadv.org/files/Guns%20and%20Campus%20SA%20(2).pdf; Know Your IX, Petition to Colorado State House et. al., “Don’t Vote to Allow Guns on College Campuses,” Change.org (2015), http://chn.ge/1TL6aAC.[]
  35. 18 U.S.C. § 922(q)(2)(A). The GFSZA originally was enacted as part of the Crime Control Act of 1990. The GFSZA was eventually challenged as an unconstitutional exercise of congressional authority under the Commerce Clause of the US Constitution. In United States v. Lopez, the Supreme Court struck down the law on the grounds that the Act regulated neither commercial nor interstate activity. 514 US 549 (1995). Following the ruling in Lopez, Congress re-enacted the GFSZA in 1996, correcting the defects identified by the Supreme Court. The amended GFSZA contained the same prohibitions as the 1996 revision, except the newer version added language to apply the law to any firearm “that has moved in or that otherwise affects interstate or foreign commerce.” 18 U.S.C. § 922(q)(2)(A), (3)(A). Challenges to the new statute have been unsuccessful. See, e.g., United States v. Danks, 221 F.3d 1037, 1038-39 (8th Cir. 1999) and United States v. Dorsey, 418 F.3d 1038, 1045-46 (9th Cir. 2005), rev’d on other grounds.[]
  36. 18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(25)-(26).[]
  37. 18 U.S.C. § 922(q)(2)(B)(ii).[]
  38. See our summaries on Licensing Gun Owners or  Purchasers and Carrying Concealed Weapons for more information about these licensing requirements.[]
  39. 18 U.S.C. § 922(q)(2)(B)(iii).[]
  40. 18 U.S.C. § 922(q)(2)(B)(iv), (v); § 922(q)(3)(B)(ii), (iii).[]
  41. Avarita L. Hanson, “Have Zero Tolerance School Discipline Policies Turned into a Nightmare? The American Dream’s Promise of Equal Educational Opportunity Grounded in Brown v. Board of Education,” 9 U.C. Davis J. Juv. L. & Pol’y (Summer 2005): 289, 303, (discussing the history of the Gun-Free Schools Act of 1990 and subsequent Acts).[]
  42. Id. at 303-04.[]
  43. 20 U.S.C. § 7151(b)(1); see also 20 U.S.C. § 7151(h)(1) (defining “school” as “any setting that is under the control and supervision of the local educational agency for the purpose of student activities approved and authorized by the local educational agency”).[]
  44. 20 U.S.C. § 7151(h)(1). In this provision, “school” is defined more narrowly to mean “a school that provides elementary or secondary education” pursuant the laws of the state. 18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(26).[]
  45. 20 U.S.C. § 7151(d), (e).[]
  46. Id.[]
  47. 20 U.S.C. § 7151(g).[]
  48. 20 U.S.C. § 7151(b)(1). A state may also allow a local educational agency that has expelled a student from the student’s regular school setting to provide an alternative educational setting. 20 U.S.C. § 7151(b)(2).[]
  49. The White House, Progress Report on the President’s Executive Actions to Reduce Gun Violence (June 18, 2013), 4, https://www.apha.org/-/media/files/pdf/topics/gun/gunviolenceprogressrpt.ashx.[]
  50. Id. at 6.[]
  51. Id. DOJ has also encouraged police departments to hire such officers by providing a preference for grant applications that support school resource officers. Id.[]
  52. US Department of Justice, Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Office, Department  of Justice Awards Hiring Grants for Law Enforcement and School Safety, Press Release, Sept. 27, 2013, https://web.archive.org/web/20180605183054/https://cops.usdoj.gov/Default.asp?Item=2695.[]
  53. Many states also provide exceptions to this general prohibition for retired law enforcement, members of the military, and other government employees who carry firearms for work.[]
  54. Many states allow firearms in K-12 schools as part of school programs such as hunter safety courses. This column refers to exceptions unrelated to school programs or education.[]
  55. Federal law allows firearms in vehicles in school zones if they are unloaded and in a locked container or locked gun rack. People with concealed carry permits are exempt from this requirement, however.[]
  56. Alabama law prohibits carrying firearms “knowingly with intent to do bodily harm” in K-12 schools but people with pistol permits are exempt from this prohibition. Ala. Code §§ 13A-11-72(c); 13A-11-72(e); 13A-11-75. However, a 2014 Attorney General opinion states that “A board of education that has notpreviously adopted an express policyprohibiting all persons, other thanauthorized law enforcement personnel,from bringing or possessing any deadlyweapon or dangerous instrument on schoolproperty is required to do so. Alabama Office of the Attorney General, “Opinion 2014-044,” February 28, 2014, https://www.alabamaag.gov/Documents/opin/2014-044.pdf.[]
  57. A 2014 Attorney General opinion states that “A board of education that has notpreviously adopted an express policyprohibiting all persons, other thanauthorized law enforcement personnel,from bringing or possessing any deadlyweapon or dangerous instrument on schoolproperty is required to do so. Alabama Office of the Attorney General, “Opinion 2014-044,” February 28, 2014, https://www.alabamaag.gov/Documents/opin/2014-044.pdf.[]
  58. Though Ala. Code §§ 13A-11-72(e) and 13A-11-75 seem to allow possession of firearms in vehicles on campus, a 2014 Attorney General opinion states that “A board of education that has notpreviously adopted an express policyprohibiting all persons, other thanauthorized law enforcement personnel,from bringing or possessing any deadlyweapon or dangerous instrument on schoolproperty is required to do so. Alabama Office of the Attorney General, “Opinion 2014-044,” February 28, 2014, https://www.alabamaag.gov/Documents/opin/2014-044.pdf.[]
  59. Alaska Stat. §§ 11.61.210(a)(7), (a)(8); 18.65.755(a)(2).[]
  60. Alaska Stat. § 11.61.210(a)(7).[]
  61. Alaska Stat. § 11.61.210(a)(7)(A).[]
  62. Current and retired law enforcement officers can carry with a concealed carry permit. Ariz. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 13-3102(I)(3).[]
  63. Ark. Code Ann. §§ 5-73-119(b)(1); 5-73-306(13)(A).[]
  64. Ark. Code Ann.  § 5-73-119(e)(11).[]
  65. Ark. Code Ann.  § 5-73-119(12).[]
  66. Cal. Penal Code § 626.9(b).[]
  67. Cal. Penal Code §§ 626.9(b), (c).[]
  68. Id.[]
  69. Colo. Rev Stat §§ 18-12-105.5; 18-12-214(3).[]
  70. Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-105.5(3)(c).[]
  71. Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-217b(a).[]
  72. Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-217b(b).[]
  73. D.C. Code Ann. §§ 7-2509.07(a)(2), 22-4504(a).[]
  74. Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 1457A (b), (c)(4), (c)(6).[]
  75. Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 1457A (b), (c)(4), (c)(6).[]
  76. Fla. Stat. §§ 790.115(1)-(2)(a), (c); 810.095; 790.06.(12)(a)(9),(10).[]
  77. Fla. Stat. § 790.115(2); Fla. Stat. Ann. § 790.25(5).[]
  78. Ga. Code Ann. § 16-11-127.1.[]
  79. Ga. Code Ann. § 16-11-127.1(c)(6).[]
  80. Ga. Code Ann. § 16-11-127.1(c)(7), (8).[]
  81. Haw. Rev. Stat. § 134-A(a)(8).[]
  82. Haw. Rev. Stat. § 134-A(a)(8).[]
  83. Haw. Rev. Stat. § 134-A(a)(8).[]
  84. Idaho Code § 18-3302D(1), (2)(e).[]
  85. Idaho Code § 18-3302D(4)(g).[]
  86. Idaho Code § 18-3302D(4)(e), (f).[]
  87. 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. 5/24-1(a)(4), (a)(9), (a)(10), (c)(1), (c)(1.5), (c)(4); 430 Ill. Comp. Stat. 66/65(a)(1).[]
  88. Illinois law provides an exception to the prohibition on carry to students and security, but not to the general public. 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. 5/24-1(c)(3).[]
  89. 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. 5/24-1(a)(4), (c)(1.5).[]
  90. Ind. Code Ann. § 35-47-9-2.[]
  91. Ind. Code Ann. § 35-47-9-1(6).[]
  92. Ind. Code Ann. § 35-47-9-1.[]
  93. Ind. Code Ann. §§ 35-47-9-1; 35-47-9-2.[]
  94. Iowa Code §§ 280.2; 724.4B(1).[]
  95. Iowa Code § 724.4B(2)(a).[]
  96. Iowa Code § 724.4B(2)(f).[]
  97. Kan. Stat. Ann. § 21-6301(a)(11); (j)(5).[]
  98. Kan. Stat. Ann. § 21-6301(a)(11); (j)(2).[]
  99. Kan. Stat. Ann. § 21-6301(a)(11); (j)(2).[]
  100. Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 527.070(1).[]
  101. Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 527.070(3)(f); 237.110(16)(f).[]
  102. Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 527.070(3)(a).[]
  103. La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 14:95.2(A); 40:1379.3(N)(11).[]
  104. La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 14:95.2(A),(C)(3).[]
  105. La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 14:95.2(A),(C)(5).[]
  106. Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. tit. 20-A, § 6552(1).[]
  107. Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. tit. 20-A, § 6552(1).[]
  108. Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. tit. 20-A, § 6552(1).[]
  109. Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law §§ 4-102; 4-111(a) and (c), effective October 1, 2023.[]
  110. Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 4-102.[]
  111. Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 4-102.[]
  112. Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 269, § 10(j).[]
  113. Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 269, § 10(j).[]
  114. Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 269, § 10(j).[]
  115. Mich. Comp. Laws Serv. § 750.237a(5)(c).[]
  116. Mich. Comp. Laws Serv. § 750.237a(5)(e).[]
  117. Mich. Comp. Laws Serv. § 750.237a.[]
  118. Minn. Stat. § 609.66 Subd.1d.[]
  119. Minn. Stat. § 609.66 Subd.1d(f)(8).[]
  120. Minn. Stat. § 609.66 Subd.1d(f)(3).[]
  121. Miss. Code Ann. §§ 97-37-17;  45-9-101, See Miss. Code Ann. § 97-37-7(2)(stating that “A person licensed under Section 45-9-101 to carry a concealed pistol, who has voluntarily completed an instructional course in the safe handling and use of firearms offered by an instructor certified by a nationally recognized organization that customarily offers firearms training, or by any other organization approved by the Department of Public Safety, shall also be authorized to carry weapons in . . . any location listed in subsection (13) of Section 45-9-101[,]” which lists, among other locations, any elementary or secondary school facility, and any junior college, community college, college or university facility7-37-7(2).[]
  122. Miss. Code Ann. § 97-37-17.[]
  123. Miss. Code Ann. §§ 97-37-17(6),(7)(g).[]
  124. Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 571.030.1(10); 571.107.1(10).[]
  125. Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 571.030.1(10); 571.030.4; 571.017.1(10).[]
  126. Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 571.030.1(10); 571.030.4; 571.017.1(10).[]
  127. Mont. Code Ann. § 45-8-361(1).[]
  128. Mont. Code Ann. § 45-8-361(3).[]
  129. Mont. Code Ann. § 45-8-361(1).[]
  130. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-1204.04.[]
  131. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-1204.04.[]
  132. Handguns stored in unattended vehicles on school grounds by CCW permittees must be securely encased. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-1204.04.[]
  133. Nevada Revised Statutes §§ 202.265(3); 202.3673(3).[]
  134. Nevada Revised Statutes §§ 202.265(3); 202.3673(3).[]
  135. Nevada Revised Statutes § 202.265.[]
  136. New Hampshire only bans pupils from possessing a firearm in a safe school zone, and also imposes a possible penalty enhancement for unlawful possession of a firearm in a safe school zone. “Unlawful possession of a firearm” occurs when someone who is prohibited from possessing a firearm possesses a firearm. NH Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 193-D:3; 193-D:1.[]
  137. Federal law restricts carry on campus by people who do not have concealed carry permits or licenses. New Hampshire only bans pupils from possessing a firearm in a safe school zone, and also imposes a possible penalty enhancement for unlawful possession of a firearm in a safe school zone. “Unlawful possession of a firearm” occurs when someone who is prohibited from possessing a firearm possesses a firearm. NH Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 193-D:3; 193-D:1.[]
  138. N.J. Stat. § 2C:39-5(e).[]
  139. N.J. Stat. § 2C:39-5(e).[]
  140. N.J. Stat. § 2C:39-5(e).[]
  141. N.M. Stat. Ann. §§ 30-7-2.1; 29-19-8.[]
  142. N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30-7-2.1.[]
  143. N.Y. Pen. Law § 265.01-A.[]
  144. N.Y. Pen. Law § 265.01-A.[]
  145. N.Y. Pen. Law § 265.01-A.[]
  146. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-269.2.[]
  147. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-269.2.[]
  148. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-269.2. Concealed handgun permittees can store firearms in a closed container in a locked vehicle on school property. []
  149. N.D. Cent. Code, § 62.1-02-05.[]
  150. N.D. Cent. Code, § 62.1-02-05.[]
  151. N.D. Cent. Code, § 62.1-02-05(2)(f).[]
  152. Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2923.122(D)(1)(d).[]
  153. Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2923.122(D)(1)(d).[]
  154. Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2923.122(D)(1)(d).[]
  155. 21 Okl. St. § 1280.1.[]
  156. 21 Okl. St. § 1280.1(C)(4).[]
  157. 21 Okl. St. § 1280.1.[]
  158. Or. Rev. Stat. §§ 166.370(1),(3)(g); 2021 SB 554.[]
  159. Or. Rev. Stat. §§ 166.370(1),(3)(h).[]
  160. Or. Rev. Stat. §§ 166.370(1),(3)(j).[]
  161. 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 912. There has been recent litigation about the scope of the law’s exception for people who possess weapons on school grounds for “other lawful purpose[s].” Pennsylvania courts have urged the Legislature to clarify this statute.[]
  162. 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 912.[]
  163. 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 912.[]
  164. R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 11-47-60; 11-47-11. Legislation enacted in 2021 extended this restriction to concealed handgun license holders as well, effective July 12, 2021.See 2021 RI HB 5555; R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-60(b). Before passage of this legislation, many schools had already adopted policies that banned firearm possession on school grounds by anyone other than law enforcement or school security guards, and the Rhode Island Board of Education had issued a directive prohibiting concealed carry holders from doing so in 2018. See Commissioner Ken Wagner, “Firearms in Schools,” August 29, 2018, https://www.ride.ri.gov/Portals/0/Uploads/Documents/FieldMemos/SchlSafetyAnncmt-20180829.pd[]
  165. R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-60.[]
  166. R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-60.[]
  167. S.C. Code Ann. § 16-23-420.[]
  168. S.C. Code Ann. § 16-23-420(A).[]
  169. S.C. Code Ann. § 16-23-420.[]
  170. S.D. Codified Laws § 13-32-7.[]
  171. S.D. Codified Laws § 13-32-7.[]
  172. S.D. Codified Laws § 13-32-7.[]
  173. Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1309.[]
  174. Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 39-17-1309; 49-50-803.[]
  175. Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 39-17-1309(c); 39-17-1310(4).[]
  176. Tex. Penal Code § 46.03(a)(1).[]
  177. Tex. Penal Code § 46.03(a)(1)(A).[]
  178. Tex. Educ. Code § 37.0815.[]
  179. Utah Code Ann. § 76-10-505.5(4)(a).[]
  180. Utah Code Ann. § 76-10-505.5(4)(b).[]
  181. Utah Code Ann. § 76-10-505.5(4)(d).[]
  182. Vermont’s firearm prohibitions apply only in school buildings and vehicles.[]
  183. Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 13, § 4004.[]
  184. Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 13, § 4004(c).[]
  185. Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 13, § 4004.[]
  186. Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308.1.[]
  187. Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308.1.[]
  188. Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308.1(E).[]
  189. Wash. Rev. Code Ann. § 9.41.280.[]
  190. Wash. Rev. Code Ann. § 9.41.280.[]
  191. Wash. Rev. Code Ann. § 9.41.280(3)(e)-(g).[]
  192. W. Va. Code § 61-7-11a.[]
  193. W. Va. Code § 61-7-11a(b)(1)(B).[]
  194. Wis. Stat. § 948.605.[]
  195. Wis. Stat. § 948.605.[]
  196. Wis. Stat. § 948.605.[]
  197. Wyo. Stat. § 6-8-104(t)(ix).[]
  198. Security guards who are retired law enforcement are not listed in this column.[]
  199. Though Ala. Code § 13A-11-72(e) seems to allow non-law enforcement carry on campus, A 2014 Attorney General opinion states that “A board of education that has notpreviously adopted an express policyprohibiting all persons, other thanauthorized law enforcement personnel,from bringing or possessing any deadlyweapon or dangerous instrument on schoolproperty is required to do so. Alabama Office of the Attorney General, “Opinion 2014-044,” February 28, 2014, https://www.alabamaag.gov/Documents/opin/2014-044.pdf..[]
  200. Alabama’s law about guns in schools prohibits carrying firearms “knowingly with intent to do bodily harm.” People with pistol permits are exempt from this prohibition. Ala. Code §§ 13A-11-72(c); 13A-11-72(e); 13A-11-75. However, a 2014 Attorney General opinion states that “A board of education that has notpreviously adopted an express policyprohibiting all persons, other thanauthorized law enforcement personnel,from bringing or possessing any deadlyweapon or dangerous instrument on schoolproperty is required to do so. Alabama Office of the Attorney General, “Opinion 2014-044,” February 28, 2014, https://www.alabamaag.gov/Documents/opin/2014-044.pdf.[]
  201. Alabama’s law about guns in schools prohibits carrying firearms “knowingly with intent to do bodily harm.” People with pistol permits are exempt from this prohibition. Ala. Code §§ 13A-11-72(c); 13A-11-72(e); 13A-11-75. However, a 2014 Attorney General opinion states that “A board of education that has notpreviously adopted an express policyprohibiting all persons, other thanauthorized law enforcement personnel,from bringing or possessing any deadlyweapon or dangerous instrument on schoolproperty is required to do so. Alabama Office of the Attorney General, “Opinion 2014-044,” February 28, 2014, https://www.alabamaag.gov/Documents/opin/2014-044.pdf.[]
  202. Alaska Stat. § 11.61.210(a)(7).[]
  203. Id.[]
  204. Id.[]
  205. Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-3102(I)(2).[]
  206. Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-3102(I)(2).[]
  207. Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-3102(I)(2).[]
  208. Ark. Code Ann.  § 5-73-119(e)(4).[]
  209. Ark. Code Ann.  § 5-73-119(e)(11).[]
  210. Ark. Code Ann.  § 5-73-119(e)(11).[]
  211. Cal. Penal Code §§ 626.9(m).[]
  212. Cal. Penal Code § 626.9.[]
  213. Id.[]
  214. Colo. Rev. Stat. §§ 18-12-105.5(3)(d.5); 18-12-214(3).[]
  215. Colorado allows carrying “for the purpose of carrying out the necessary duties and functions of an employee of an educational institution that require the use of a deadly weapon.” Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-105.5.[]
  216. Colorado allows carrying “for the purpose of carrying out the necessary duties and functions of an employee of an educational institution that require the use of a deadly weapon.” Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-105.5.[]
  217. Connecticut allows carry by a person “in accordance with an agreement entered into between school officials and such person or such person’s employer.” Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-217b(b).[]
  218. Connecticut allows carry by a person “in accordance with an agreement entered into between school officials and such person or such person’s employer.” Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-217b(b).[]
  219. Connecticut allows carry by a person “in accordance with an agreement entered into between school officials and such person or such person’s employer.” Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-217b(b).[]
  220. 14 Del. C. § 9004.[]
  221. D.C. Code § 7-2509.07(a)(2).[]
  222. D.C. Code § 7-2509.07(a)(2).[]
  223. Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 1457A (b), (c)(4), (c)(6).[]
  224. Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 1457A (b), (c)(4), (c)(6).[]
  225. Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 1457A (b), (c)(4), (c)(6).[]
  226. Fla. Stat. Ann. § 1006.12.[]
  227. Id.[]
  228. Id.[]
  229. Ga. Code Ann. § 16-11-127.1(5).[]
  230. Ga. Code Ann. § 16-11-127.1(c)(6).[]
  231. Ga. Code Ann. § 16-11-127.1(c)(6).[]
  232. Haw. Rev. Stat. § 134-A(a)(8).[]
  233. Haw. Rev. Stat. § 134-A(a)(8).[]
  234. As of March 2018, It does not appear that any of the ten largest school districts allow individuals or employees to carry firearms in K-12 schools. Some smaller districts permit firearms in schools, however, including Garden Valley School District, Blackfoot Charter Community Learning Center, Salmon River Joint School District and Mountain View School District.[]
  235. Idaho Code § 18-3302D(4).[]
  236. Idaho Code § 18-3302D(4)(g).[]
  237. Idaho Code § 18-3302D(4)(g).[]
  238. 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. 5/24-1(c)(3).[]
  239. 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. 5/24-1(c).[]
  240. 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. 5/24-1(c).[]
  241. As of March 2018, It does not appear that any of the largest school districts currently allow teachers or other individuals to carry firearms. At least one small district (North White School District) allows administrators to carry firearms, but not teachers.[]
  242. Ind. Code Ann. § 35-47-9-1.[]
  243. Ind. Code Ann. § 350-47-9-1.[]
  244. Ind. Code Ann. § 35-47-9-1.[]
  245. As of March 2018, the Iowa Department of Education and Iowa School Board Association are not aware of any district allowing teachers to carry firearms. However, schools and school districts do not appear to be required to report this information.[]
  246. Iowa Code § 724.4B(2).[]
  247. Iowa Code § 724.4B(2).[]
  248. Iowa Code § 724.4B(2).[]
  249. It does not appear that the largest school districts have allowed teachers to carry firearms, because the primary insurer of Kansas schools threatened to increase insurance premiums or refuse to insure school districts which permitted teachers to carry firearms.[]
  250. Kan. Stat. Ann. § 21-6301(a)(11); (j)(2).[]
  251. Kan. Stat. Ann. § 21-6301(a)(11); (j)(2).[]
  252. Kan. Stat. Ann. § 21-6301(a)(11); (j)(2).[]
  253. Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 527.070(3)(f).[]
  254. Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 527.070(3)(f).[]
  255. Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 527.070(3)(f).[]
  256. Louisiana allows “A  school official or employee acting during the normal course of his employment” to carry a firearm. La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 14:95.2(A),(C)(2).[]
  257. Louisiana’s law is vague, allowing “A school official or employee acting during the normal course of his employment” to carry a firearm. This does not appear to apply to school staff who are not security officers. However, bills have been introduced to amend the law to allow teachers to carry guns, none of which have passed. La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 14:95.2(A),(C)(2).[]
  258. Louisiana’s law is vague, allowing “A school official or employee acting during the normal course of his employment” to carry a firearm. This does not appear to apply to school staff who are not security officers. However, bills have been introduced to amend the law to allow teachers to carry guns, none of which have passed. La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 14:95.2(A),(C)(2).[]
  259. Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. tit. 20-A, § 6552(1).[]
  260. Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. tit. 20-A, § 6552(1).[]
  261. Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. tit. 20-A, § 6552(1).[]
  262. Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 4-102(a)(3).[]
  263. Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 4-102.[]
  264. Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 4-102.[]
  265. Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 269, § 10(j).[]
  266. Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 269, § 10(j).[]
  267. Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 269, § 10(j).[]
  268. Mich. Comp. Laws Serv. § 750.237a(5)(d).[]
  269. Mich. Comp. Laws Serv. § 750.237a(5)(e).[]
  270. Mich. Comp. Laws Serv. § 750.237a(5)(e).[]
  271. Minn. Stat. § 609.66 Subd.1d(f)(8).[]
  272. Minn. Stat. § 609.66 Subd.1d(f)(8).[]
  273. Minn. Stat. § 609.66 Subd.1d(f)(8).[]
  274. Miss. Code Ann. §§ 97-37-17(7)(c); Section 97-37-7.[]
  275. Miss. Code Ann. § 45-9-181(4).[]
  276. Miss. Code Ann. § 45-9-181(4).[]
  277. Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 571.030.1(10);571.030.2(8).[]
  278. Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 571.030.1(10); 571.030.4; 571.017.1(10).[]
  279. Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 571.030.1(10); 571.030.4; 571.017.1(10).[]
  280. Mont. Code Ann. § 45-8-361(3).[]
  281. Mont. Code Ann. § 45-8-361(3).[]
  282. Mont. Code Ann. § 45-8-361(3).[]
  283. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-1204.04.[]
  284. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-1204.04.[]
  285. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-1204.04.[]
  286. Nevada Revised Statutes § 202.265(3).[]
  287. Nevada Revised Statutes § 202.265(3).[]
  288. Nevada Revised Statutes § 202.265(3).[]
  289. Federal law restricts carry on campus by people who do not have concealed carry permits or licenses. New Hampshire only bans pupils from possessing a firearm in a safe school zone, and also imposes a possible penalty enhancement for unlawful possession of a firearm in a safe school zone. “Unlawful possession of a firearm” occurs when someone who is prohibited from possessing a firearm possesses a firearm. NH Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 193-D:3; 193-D:1.[]
  290. Federal law restricts carry on campus by people who do not have concealed carry permits or licenses. New Hampshire only bans pupils from possessing a firearm in a safe school zone, and also imposes a possible penalty enhancement for unlawful possession of a firearm in a safe school zone. “Unlawful possession of a firearm” occurs when someone who is prohibited from possessing a firearm possesses a firearm. NH Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 193-D:3; 193-D:1.[]
  291. Federal law restricts carry on campus by people who do not have concealed carry permits or licenses. New Hampshire only bans pupils from possessing a firearm in a safe school zone, and also imposes a possible penalty enhancement for unlawful possession of a firearm in a safe school zone. “Unlawful possession of a firearm” occurs when someone who is prohibited from possessing a firearm possesses a firearm. NH Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 193-D:3; 193-D:1.[]
  292. N.J. Stat. § 2C:39-5(e).[]
  293. N.J. Stat. § 2C:39-5(e).[]
  294. N.J. Stat. § 2C:39-5(e).[]
  295. N.M. Stat. Ann. §§ 30-7-2.1[]
  296. New Mexico’s law provides an exception for “a person conducting or participating in a school-approved program, class or other activity involving the carrying of a deadly weapon.” N.M. Stat. Ann. §§ 30-7-2.1.[]
  297. New Mexico’s law provides an exception for “a person conducting or participating in a school-approved program, class or other activity involving the carrying of a deadly weapon.” N.M. Stat. Ann. §§ 30-7-2.1.[]
  298. NY Pen. Law § 265.01-A.[]
  299. NY Pen. Law § 265.01-A.[]
  300. NY Pen. Law § 265.01-A.[]
  301. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-269.2(g)(7).[]
  302. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-269.2.[]
  303. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-269.2.[]
  304. N.D. Cent. Code, § 62.1-02-05(2)(h).[]
  305. N.D. Cent. Code, § 62.1-02-05.[]
  306. N.D. Cent. Code, § 62.1-02-05.[]
  307. Ohio Rev. Code Ann. 2923.122(D)(1)(a).[]
  308. Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2923.122(D)(1)(d).[]
  309. Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2923.122(D)(1)(d).[]
  310. 21 Okl. St. § 1280.1(C)(7).[]
  311. Oklahoma allows carry by any school personnel with security guard licenses who have been designated by the board of education to carry guns. 21 Okl. St. § 1280.1.[]
  312. Oklahoma allows carry by any school personnel with security guard licenses who have been designated by the board of education to carry guns. 21 Okl. St. § 1280.1.[]
  313. Or. Rev. Stat. §§ 166.370(1),(3)(g).[]
  314. Or. Rev. Stat. §§ 166.370(1),(3)(g).[]
  315. Or. Rev. Stat. §§ 166.370(1),(3)(g).[]
  316. 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 912. Pennsylvania’s law about weapons in schools provides an exception for weapons possessed for “any lawful purpose.” Case law suggests that self-defense could count as a “lawful purpose” for this law, and the court has suggested that the legislature clarify what this exception means. Commonwealth v. Goslin, 2017 PA Super 38, 156 A.3d 314; Commonwealth v. Edwards, 217 A.3d 387 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2019).[]
  317. 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 912. Pennsylvania’s law about weapons in schools provides an exception for weapons possessed for “any lawful purpose.” Case law suggests that self-defense could count as a “lawful purpose” for this law, and the court has suggested that the legislature clarify what this exception means. Commonwealth v. Goslin, 2017 PA Super 38, 156 A.3d 314; Commonwealth v. Edwards, 217 A.3d 387 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2019).[]
  318. 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 912. Pennsylvania’s law about weapons in schools provides an exception for weapons possessed for “any lawful purpose.” Case law suggests that self-defense could count as a “lawful purpose” for this law, and the court has suggested that the legislature clarify what this exception means. Commonwealth v. Goslin, 2017 PA Super 38, 156 A.3d 314; Commonwealth v. Edwards, 217 A.3d 387 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2019).[]
  319. R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 11-47-60; 11-47-11. Though state law allows carry in schools by anyone with a CCW permit, over the years, many schools have adopted policies that ban firearm possession on campus by anyone other than law enforcement. A 2018 directive from the Board of Education extended these restrictions to all schools in order to create a more consistent state policy regarding firearms. Commissioner Ken Wagner, “Firearms in Schools,” August 29, 2018, https://www.ride.ri.gov/Portals/0/Uploads/Documents/FieldMemos/SchlSafetyAnncmt-20180829.pd[]
  320. R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 11-47-60; 11-47-11. Though state law allows carry in schools by anyone with a CCW permit, over the years, many schools have adopted policies that ban firearm possession on campus by anyone other than law enforcement. A 2018 directive from the Board of Education extended these restrictions to all schools in order to create a more consistent state policy regarding firearms. Commissioner Ken Wagner, “Firearms in Schools,” August 29, 2018, https://www.ride.ri.gov/Portals/0/Uploads/Documents/FieldMemos/SchlSafetyAnncmt-20180829.pd[]
  321. R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 11-47-60; 11-47-11. Though state law allows carry in schools by anyone with a CCW permit, over the years, many schools have adopted policies that ban firearm possession on campus by anyone other than law enforcement. A 2018 directive from the Board of Education extended these restrictions to all schools in order to create a more consistent state policy regarding firearms. Commissioner Ken Wagner, “Firearms in Schools,” August 29, 2018, https://www.ride.ri.gov/Portals/0/Uploads/Documents/FieldMemos/SchlSafetyAnncmt-20180829.pd[]
  322. S.C. Code Ann. § 16-23-420.[]
  323. S.C. Code Ann. § 16-23-420.[]
  324. S.C. Code Ann. § 16-23-420.[]
  325. S.D. Codified Laws §§ 13-32-7; 13-64-1.[]
  326. S.D. Codified Laws §§ 13-32-7; 13-64-1.[]
  327. S.D. Codified Laws §§ 13-32-7; 13-64-1.[]
  328. Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1309(e)(6), (e)(7).[]
  329. Tennessee allows schools in “distressed rural counties” to adopt a policy that authorizes certain staff members to carry concealed firearms, if they fulfill certain training and licensing requirements. Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 39-17-1309; 49-6-816.[]
  330. Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 39-17-1309; 49-50-803.[]
  331. Tennessee allows schools in “distressed rural counties” to adopt a policy that authorizes certain staff members to carry concealed firearms, if they fulfill certain training and licensing requirements. Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 39-17-1309; 49-6-816.[]
  332. Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 39-17-1309; 49-50-803.[]
  333. Tex. Educ. Code Ann. §§ 37.0811, 37.0814.[]
  334. Tex. Educ. Code Ann. §§ 37.0811, 37.0814.[]
  335. Tex. Educ. Code Ann. §§ 37.0811, 37.0814.[]
  336. Utah allows anyone with a concealed carry permit to carry firearms on campus. Utah Code Ann. § 76-10-505.5(4)(a).[]
  337. Utah allows anyone with a concealed carry permit to carry firearms on campus. Utah Code Ann. § 76-10-505.5(4)(a).[]
  338. Utah allows anyone with a concealed carry permit to carry firearms on campus. Utah Code Ann. § 76-10-505.5(4)(a).[]
  339. Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 13, § 4004(c).[]
  340. Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 13, § 4004(c).[]
  341. Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 13, § 4004(c).[]
  342. Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308.1.[]
  343. Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308.1(E).[]
  344. Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308.1.[]
  345. Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308.1.[]
  346. Wash. Rev. Code Ann. § 9.41.280(3)(b).[]
  347. Wash. Rev. Code Ann. § 9.41.280.[]
  348. Wash. Rev. Code Ann. § 9.41.280.[]
  349. W. Va. Code § 61-7-11a.[]
  350. W. Va. Code § 61-7-11a.[]
  351. W. Va. Code § 61-7-11a.[]
  352. Wis. Stat. § 948.605.[]
  353. Wis. Stat. § 948.605.[]
  354. Wis. Stat. § 948.605.[]
  355. Training and licensing requirements apply. Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 21-3-132.[]
  356. Training and licensing requirements apply. Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 21-3-132.[]
  357. Training and licensing requirements apply. Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 21-3-132.[]
  358. 2022 AL HB 272, effective Jan. 1, 2023.[]
  359. See University of Alabama, “Dangerous Weapons and Firearms Policy,” accessed October 27, 2020, https://fa-webprod.fa.ua.edu/UAFASPOnlinePublic/804c2645-66d2-4035-87fe-4f4c0e88f646/Dangerous%20Weapons%20and%20Firearms%20Policy.pdf.[]
  360. See University of Alabama, “Dangerous Weapons and Firearms Policy,” accessed October 27, 2020, https://fa-webprod.fa.ua.edu/UAFASPOnlinePublic/804c2645-66d2-4035-87fe-4f4c0e88f646/Dangerous%20Weapons%20and%20Firearms%20Policy.pdf.[]
  361. University of Alaska Board of Regents, “P02.09.020 Possession of Weapons,” accessed October 27, 2020, https://www.alaska.edu/bor/policy/02-09.pdf.[]
  362. University of Alaska Board of Regents, “P02.09.020 Possession of Weapons,” accessed October 27, 2020, https://www.alaska.edu/bor/policy/02-09.pdf.[]
  363. Ariz. Admin. Code § 7-4-102(3).[]
  364. Ariz. Admin. Code § 7-4-102(3).[]
  365. Arkansas Code § 5-73-322.

    Carry is not allowed at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences or at college athletic events. Ark. Code § 5-73-122(3)(D).[]
  366. Arkansas Code § 5-73-322(b),(d).[]
  367. Cal. Penal Code § 626.9(h),(i).[]
  368. Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-105.5.; see also C.R.S. § 18-12-214(1) (Colorado Concealed Carry Act).[]
  369. Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-105.5.[]
  370. See University of Connecticut Clery Compliance Department, “2014 Annual Security & Fire Report,” revised April 2016, https://publicsafety.uconn.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/1532/2015/09/2014-ASFR.pdf; University of Connecticut, “Community Standards Part III: Proscribed Conduct,” accessed October 28, 2020, https://community.uconn.edu/the-student-code-part-iii/.[]
  371. See University of Connecticut Clery Compliance Department, “2014 Annual Security & Fire Report,” revised April 2016, https://publicsafety.uconn.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/1532/2015/09/2014-ASFR.pdf; University of Connecticut, “Community Standards Part III: Proscribed Conduct,” accessed October 28, 2020, https://community.uconn.edu/the-student-code-part-iii/.[]
  372. 14 Del. C. § 9004.[]
  373. https://sites.udel.edu/generalcounsel/policies/possession-and-use-of-firearms-on-university-property/, Last visited Aug. 27, 2021.[]
  374. University of Delaware, “Possession and Use of Firearms on University Property,” revised December 2014, https://sites.udel.edu/generalcounsel/policies/possession-and-use-of-firearms-on-university-property/.[]
  375. D.C. Code § 7-2509.07(a)(2).[]
  376. D.C. Code § 7-2509.07(a)(2).[]
  377. Fla. Stat. Ann. § 790.115(2). There are specified exceptions, such as firearms carried for school programs.[]
  378. Fla. Stat. Ann. § 790.06(12)(a)(13), (b); see Florida Carry, Inc. v. Univ. of N. Florida, 133 So. 3d 966, 977 (Fla. Ct. App. 2013) (en banc).[]
  379. Ga. Code § 16-11-127.1(c)(6),(20).[]
  380. Ga. Code § 16-11-127.1(c)(6),(20).[]
  381. Haw. Rev. Stat. § 134-A(a)(7).[]
  382. Idaho Code Ann. § 18-3309(1), (2).[]
  383. Idaho Code Ann. § 18-3309(2).[]
  384. 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. 5/24-1(a)(4), (10), (c)(1.5), (4).[]
  385. 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. 5/24-1(a)(4), (10).[]
  386. Indiana’s statute prohibiting firearms on school property uses a relatively vague definition of “school property” which seems not to apply to postsecondary schools. Burns Ind. Code Ann. § 35-31.5-2-285.[]
  387. Indiana University, “Possession of Firearms and Weapons,” May 8, 2013, https://policies.iu.edu/policies/ps-03-firearms-weapons/index.html.[]
  388. Indiana’s statute prohibiting firearms on school property uses a relatively vague definition of “school property” which seems not to apply to postsecondary schools. Burns Ind. Code Ann. § 35-31.5-2-285.[]
  389. Indiana University, “Possession of Firearms and Weapons,” May 8, 2013, https://policies.iu.edu/policies/ps-03-firearms-weapons/index.html.[]
  390. 681 Iowa Admin. Code 9.1(2)(g).[]
  391. Kan. Stat. Ann. § 75-7C,20(a)(m).[]
  392. K.S.A. § 75-7c20(a), (m)(1).[]
  393. Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 237.115(1).[]
  394. University of Kentucky, “Policy on Deadly Weapons,” June 19, 2012, https://www.uky.edu/regs/sites/www.uky.edu.regs/files/files/ar/ar6-6.pdf.[]
  395. Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 237.115(1).[]
  396. University of Kentucky, “Policy on Deadly Weapons,” June 19, 2012, https://www.uky.edu/regs/sites/www.uky.edu.regs/files/files/ar/ar6-6.pdf.[]
  397. La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 40:1379.3; 14:95.2(C).[]
  398. La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 40:1379.3; 14:95.2(C).[]
  399. Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 20-A, § 10009.[]
  400. University of Maine, “Weapons Policy,” April 1996, https://umaine.edu/hr/wp-content/uploads/sites/355/2018/05/Weapons-Policy.pdf#:~:text=1.,the%20Office%20of%20Public%20Safety.[]
  401. Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 20-A, § 10009.[]
  402. University of Maine, “Weapons Policy,” April 1996, https://umaine.edu/hr/wp-content/uploads/sites/355/2018/05/Weapons-Policy.pdf#:~:text=1.,the%20Office%20of%20Public%20Safety.[]
  403. Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 4-111(d).[]
  404. Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 269, § 10(j). There is an exception if one has written authorization to carry a firearm.[]
  405. Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 269, § 10(j). There is an exception if one has written authorization to carry a firearm.[]
  406. Some schools in Michigan have allowed concealed carry on campus other than in dorms or classrooms. See Brittany Shammas, “MSU Allows People to Carry Concealed Firearms on Campus,” The State News, June 21, 2009, http://statenews.com/index.php/article/2009/06/msu_allows_people_to_carry_concealed_firearms_on_campus. Other schools, such as the University of Michigan, have prohibited firearms everywhere on campus. The Michigan Court of Appeals rejected a constitutional challenge to the University of Michigan’s policy and ruled that the university has authority to prohibit firearms on campus, including by concealed carry permit holders. Wade v. University of Michigan, No. 330555 (Mich. Ct. App. Jun. 6, 2017); Kim Kozlowski, “Court: University of Michigan Can Ban Guns on Campus,” The Detroit News, June 7, 2017, http://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2017/06/07/um-campus-guns/102583380/.[]
  407. Mich. Comp. Laws § 28.425o(1)(h).[]
  408. Minn. Stat. § 624.714, Subd. 18. Schools may not prohibit lawful possession of firearms in a parking facility or parking area.[]
  409. University of Minnesota, “Board of Regents Policy: Possession and Carrying of Weapons,” July 11, 2003, https://regents.umn.edu/sites/regents.umn.edu/files/2019-09/policy_possession_and_carrying_weapons.pdf.[]
  410. Minn. Stat. § 624.714, Subd. 18(c).[]
  411. See Miss. Code Ann. § 97-37-7(2).[]
  412. Op. Miss. Att’y Gen. No. 2013-00023 (Oct. 1, 2013), 2013 Miss. AG LEXIS 248, *8-9 (“An enhanced permit cannot constitutionally take away the rights of property owners to exclude persons from their property if that is their wish. …Therefore, private property owners, including… private schools…may exclude from their premises persons carrying weapons.”[]
  413. See Miss. Code Ann. § 97-37-7(2)(stating that “A person licensed under Section 45-9-101 to carry a concealed pistol, who has voluntarily completed an instructional course in the safe handling and use of firearms offered by an instructor certified by a nationally recognized organization that customarily offers firearms training, or by any other organization approved by the Department of Public Safety, shall also be authorized to carry weapons in . . . any location listed in subsection (13) of Section 45-9-101[,]” which lists, among other locations, any elementary or secondary school facility, and any junior college, community college, college or university facility.”); Op. Miss. Att’y Gen., answer to Question No. 4 (Jan. 5, 2012), at https://handgunlaw.us/documents/agopinions/MSAGOpinionOnCarryOnCampusWithEndorsement.pdf.[]
  414. Op. Miss. Att’y Gen. No. 2013-00023 (Oct. 1, 2013), 2013 Miss. AG LEXIS 248, *8-9 (“An enhanced permit cannot constitutionally take away the rights of property owners to exclude persons from their property if that is their wish. …Therefore, private property owners, including… private schools…may exclude from their premises persons carrying weapons”).[]
  415. Firearms are allowed with permission from the school. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.107.1(10).[]
  416. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.107.1(10).[]
  417. 2021 HB 102, amending Title 45, Chapter 8, Part 3.[]
  418. Board of Regents of Higher Ed. v. Montana, No. BD-2021-598 (Mont. 1st Dist. Nov. 30 2021).[]
  419. 2021 HB 102, amending Title 45, Chapter 8, Part 3.[]
  420. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-1204.04(1). See our page on guns in schools in Nebraska for a full list of exceptions.[]
  421. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-1204.04(1)(h).[]
  422. Nev. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 202.265; 202.3673(3).[]
  423. Firearms may be stored with the University Policy Department. University System of New Hampshire, “J. Firearms on Campus,” updated January 9, 2018, https://www.usnh.edu/unh/iii-administrative-policies/j-firearms-campus.[]
  424. N.J. Stat. Ann. § 2C:39-5(e)(1).[]
  425. N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30-7-2.4.[]
  426. N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30-7-2.4(A)(5).[]
  427. N.Y. Penal Law §§ 265.01-a.[]
  428. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-269.2.[]
  429. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-269.2(k).[]
  430. N.D. Cent. Code, § 62.1-02-13.[]
  431. University of North Dakota, “Workplace Violence,” reviewed February 2020, https://und.policystat.com/policy/7717363/latest/.[]
  432. N.D. Cent. Code, § 62.1-02-13.[]
  433. University of North Dakota, “Workplace Violence,” reviewed February 2020, https://und.policystat.com/policy/7717363/latest/.[]
  434. Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2923.126(B)(5).[]
  435. Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2923.126(B)(5).[]
  436. Okla. Stat. tit. 21, §§ 1290.4, 1277(G); see also “Oklahoma Open Carry FAQ,” OK.gov, accessed December 7, 2018, https://www.ok.gov/governor/OpenCarryFAQ.html (“Generally, you cannot openly carry at … Colleges, Universities or Technology Centers”).[]
  437. Okla. Stat. tit. 21, §§ 1290.4, 1277(G).[]
  438. Okla. Stat. tit. 21, §§ 1290.4, 1277(G).[]
  439. 2021 SB 554.[]
  440. 2021 SB 554.[]
  441. People can carry if given specific authorization from the University. Pennsylvania State University, “SY12 Weapons and Fireworks Regulations, Fireworks, and Paintball Devices,” updated June 19, 2014, https://policy.psu.edu/policies/sy12.[]
  442. People can carry if given specific authorization from the University. Pennsylvania State University, “SY12 Weapons and Fireworks Regulations, Fireworks, and Paintball Devices,” updated June 19, 2014, https://policy.psu.edu/policies/sy12.[]
  443. University of Rhode Island, “Student Handbook,” accessed November 1, 2020, 21, https://web.uri.edu/studentconduct/files/2015-2017-Student-Handbook.pdf.[]
  444. University of Rhode Island, “Student Handbook,” accessed November 1, 2020, 21, https://web.uri.edu/studentconduct/files/2015-2017-Student-Handbook.pdf.[]
  445. S.C. Code Ann. § 16-23-420.[]
  446. S.C. Code Ann. § 16-23-420.[]
  447. South Dakota Board of Regents, “Violence in the Workplace and Educational Settings,” accessed November 1, 2020, https://www.sdbor.edu/policy/documents/1-25.pdf. For a list of exceptions, see University of South Dakota, “Student Handbook 2020-2021,” accessed November 1, 2020, https://www.usd.edu/-/media/files/student-life/usdstudenthandbook.ashx.[]
  448. University of South Dakota, “Student Handbook 2020-2021,” accessed November 1, 2020, https://www.usd.edu/-/media/files/student-life/usdstudenthandbook.ashx.[]
  449. Several location restrictions apply to carry by employees with enhanced carry permits. Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1309, (e).[]
  450. Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 49-7-161; 39-17-1309.[]
  451. Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1309(c)(1)(b).[]
  452. Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1309(e)(11).[]
  453. Tex. Gov’t. Code § 411.2031. A working group at University of Texas, Austin decided that a ban on handguns in classrooms has the effect of excluding licensed handguns from campus. []
  454. Tex. Gov’t. Code § 411.2031.[]
  455. Tex. Gov’t. Code § 411.2031.[]
  456. Utah Code Ann. § 53B-3-103.[]
  457. Utah Code Ann. § 53B-3-103(2).[]
  458. Vermont does prohibit knowingly possessing a firearm within a “school building,” and on any school property with the intent to injure another person. Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 13, § 4004(a)-(b). But it is not clear whether this applies to buildings on public or private colleges or universities, because “school” is undefined.[]
  459. The University of Vermont, “Weapons,” accessed November 4, 2020, https://www.uvm.edu/sites/default/files/UVM-Policies/policies/firearms.pdf.[]
  460. The University of Vermont, “Weapons,” accessed November 4, 2020, https://www.uvm.edu/sites/default/files/UVM-Policies/policies/firearms.pdf.[]
  461. Op. Att’y Gen. Va. 05-078 (Jan. 4, 2006), 2006 Va. AG LEXIS 3, *6-*7 (opining that CCW cannot be prohibited in open areas of public campuses by licensed members of the public). See Digiacinto v. Rector & Visitors of George Mason Univ., 704 S.E.2d 365, 369 (Va. 2011).[]
  462. Op. Att’y Gen. Va. 05-078 (Jan. 4, 2006), 2006 Va. AG LEXIS 3, *6-*7 (opining that CCW cannot be prohibited in open areas of public campuses by licensed members of the public). However, public colleges and universities may still restrict concealed carry by students and employees, and in places where people congregate, such as in buildings or at events. See Digiacinto v. Rector & Visitors of George Mason Univ., 704 S.E.2d 365, 369 (Va. 2011).[]
  463. Wash. Admin. Code § 478-124-020(e).[]
  464. W. Va. Code § §18B-4-5b(a).[]
  465. Wis. Stats. § 943.13(1m)(5); see also “Carrying Weapons or Firearms at University of Wisconsin Institutions,” University of Wisconsin Systems, October 14, 2011, https://www.wisconsin.edu/uw-policies/uw-system-administrative-policies/carrying-weapons-or-firearms-at-university-of-wisconsin-institutions/ (policy for the University of Wisconsin requiring that schools post signs prohibiting individuals from carrying weapons or firearms in campus buildings).[]
  466. Wis. Stats. § 943.13(1m)(5).[]
  467. There is an exception if one has consent from the college or university. Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 6-8-104(t)(vi), (x).[]
  468. There is an exception if one has consent from the college or university. Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 6-8-104(t)(vi), (x).[]