Summary of Recent Legislation

During the 84th Legislative Session, Senate Bill 11, also known as the Campus Carry was passed. Campus Carry mandates that institutions of higher education allow individuals holding a handgun license to carry a concealed handgun on Texas Tech University campuses and into many Texas Tech University buildings.

Open Carry

Open Carry will continue to be prohibited on Texas Tech University campuses and in Texas Tech University buildings.

Legislation Compliance Guidance

Senate Bill 11 provides provisions to allow universities the ability to have some discretion in tailoring handgun rules for their respective campuses. Senate Bill 11 describes limitations on the university's discretion with enactment of the new law. The key points are:

1. Subject to rules adopted by the university, individuals holding a valid Texas handgun license will be allowed to carry their handgun, concealed on their person, on campus.
2. The president of each university shall establish "reasonable rules" regarding the carrying of handguns on the campus.
3. The established policy may not be generally prohibitive.
4. Consultation with students, staff and faculty should occur before a policy is established.
5. The consultations should take into account the student population, specific safety considerations for that campus, and the uniqueness of the campus environment.
6. Handguns are not specifically prohibited in university living facilities. However, the law provides that the university, "may include in its policy provisions concerning the storage of handguns in dormitories or other residential facilities."
7. At any campus location that is declared off limits for concealed carry, notice must be given by signage meeting the requirements of Texas Penal Code section 30.06.
8. Policy adopted by the university is subject to review at two levels:
   
   • By the Board of Regents no later than 90 days after the university's President adopts the policy. The Board may modify the rules, but only by a two-thirds majority vote.
   • By September 1st of each even-numbered year, the university must submit a report to the Legislature and standing committees describing the rules adopted and explaining the reasons the institution has established those provisions.
9. Once established, the university will widely distribute its policy, rules, and regulations to students, staff and faculty.