Here’s a primer on Georgia House Bill 280, often called the “campus carry” bill.
Q: Can you carry a firearm on any campus in Georgia?
A: No. The bill applies only to public colleges and universities in the state, such as the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, Georgia State and Kennesaw State universities. It does not apply to private institutions such as Emory University or Spelman College.
Q: Who gets to carry a weapon on campus?
A: Anyone with a Georgia weapons license. In Georgia, you must be 21 or older, be fingerprinted and pass a background check to obtain a license.
Q: Are there places on public campuses where are firearms prohibited?
A: Yes. They’re not allowed in athletic venues, student housing, fraternity and sorority houses, faculty academic offices, offices where disciplinary proceedings are held, spaces where classes are held for high school students including dual-enrollment programs as well as pre-school and childcare facilities.
Q: Does the firearm have to be exposed for anyone to see?
A: The weapon is supposed to be concealed, carried in a fashion that does not attract the attention of others.
Q: Who’s responsible for enforcing the law?
A: In most cases, it will be campus police.
Q: What role will faculty plan in administering the law?
A: It’s unclear. University System of Georgia officials have asked its institutions not to make any rule changes until it offers them guidance.
Q: When does the law take effect?
A: July 1.
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