Concealed Handguns on College Campuses? Texas Is Considering It.

The gunfire that erupted at a Houston-Area college this week has prompted new calls for allowing concealed handgun license holders to bring their weapons into Texas college buildings and in the classroom, for self-defense.

A new bill is being considered by Texas lawmakers that would allow concealed handguns in college classrooms. A similar bill was shot down in 2011, however the recent campus shooting as well as the Sandy Hook tragedy has reignited debate over safety in schools.

The Campus Personal Protection Act was introduced last week by Senator Brian Birdwell, R-Granbury. The prospect of the bill's passage is still unclear, however 14 Republicans from the 31-seat Senate have already signed on in support of it.

Senator Birdwell called the Lone Star College shooting a prime example why there is a need for the passage of his bill.

College administrators have typically not been in support of similar bills, stating they worry it would spark more campus violence and suicide. However supporters call the bill a critical self-defense measure and gun rights issue.

Senator Donna Campbell, R-New Braunfels believes that the bill levels the playing field, stating "We have to allow people the option for self-protection."