Coming to Class Carrying a TASER; a Good Idea?

Colorado State University – Pueblo student can now carry TASER devices, stun guns and pepper spray concealed while on campus, even with the newest weapons ban recently passed by the Board of Governors. Students at CSU – Fort Collins won’t have the same options.

Spokesmen for the University cite differences in location as the reason behind the decision to have unique policies at each school.

Protests are Sure to Follow
Even though both the board and faculty of each school supported the new policy banning handguns from campus, while allowing less lethal options, the University expects to find itself in court sooner or later.

Gun lobbyists are likely to protest any restriction of State based gun carrying laws. State senator Greg Brophy, R – Wray, has committed to write legislation to overturn the CSU ban. Carrying a concealed weapon in Colorado is permitted if one has the proper license.

Students in Favor of Ban
Even in light of the to-do, students stand in favor of the ban. Until recently they objected, but when a compromise was reached, allowing student to carry non-lethal means of self defense, their position changed.

Some studies indicate that concealed guns increase the likelihood of accidental discharges and the use of guns to solve disputes at gatherings. Other studies show little correlation between the presence of concealed firearms and on campus violence.

For Now the Ban will Stand
One of the few remaining Universities in the country not to have a concealed firearms ban in place, CSU joins the majority with this ban. Until legal opposition is formed, the ban will stand, say Board members, who debated the issue for a year before determining the new policy.

Fortunately, students will still be able to protect themselves in dangerous situations with non-lethal weapons such as stun guns, TASER devices and pepper spray.