The North Carolina Legislature recently passed a bill that would allow concealed weapons on college campuses despite pushback from educators and student groups
The bill, which was passed by the North Carolina house and Senate on Tuesday, was opposed by police chiefs at all 17 University of North Carolina college campuses.
Student government associations also opposed the bill, with some going as far as to write personal appeals to lawmakers.
“College is a time filled with many new experiences, and sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming. I personally do not believe that by having guns more accessible to college students we will be making campuses safer,” Appalachian State student body president Dylan Russell said.
The law would also allow residents to bring concealed weapons to bars, restaurants and other places where alcohol is served.
Bar owners will still be allowed to deny entry to those carrying forearms if they so desire.
The law would also allow gun owners to carry their weapons to playgrounds, on hiking trails and in other public recreation areas. It would additionally allow those with gun permits to keep concealed weapons in their cars on college and public school campuses.
Republican Governor Pat McCroy is expected to sign the bill into a law in the next few days.