House approves guns at colleges, universities

— The Arkansas House has approved a bill that would let faculty and staff carry concealed handguns on college campuses.

Gov. Mike Beebe says he would probably sign it if the Legislature sends it to him.

The House sent the bill to the Senate on a 70-11 vote, with one member voting “present.” Republican Rep. Charlie Collins of Fayetteville amended the bill this week to include an opt-out-clause for public colleges and universities.

Beebe told reporters Friday that he’s more comfortable with the measure now that it contains an opt-out provision for all colleges. The bill had already included an opt-out provision for private schools.

The measure is among several aimed at loosening state gun laws that legislators are considering after Republicans won the House and Senate last year.

Upcoming Events