University Police Department confirmed the recommendation of two gun-free zones following the implementation of Campus Carry legislation which goes into effect Aug. 1. If implemented, students may carry their concealed firearm anywhere on campus with the exception of the Student Counseling and Wellness Center and the Fitness Center.
The offices of Student Affairs and Business Affairs confirmed March 11 recommendations for gun-free zones on campus were forwarded to The Texas A&M University System but did not provide details on specific areas.
Melissa Mahan, vice president for Student Affairs, said in an email that a committee made a recommendation was given to President Matson, who forwarded the memo to the Texas A&M System Board of Regents. Mahan said the system would determine the final decision.
The designated gun-free zones–if approved by the TAMU System–will be identified by signs, confirmed Darrel Morrison, vice president for Business affairs.
Texas A&M University-San Antonio remains a gun-free campus until July 31, when licensed concealed carrying holders who meet the minimum age requirements may carry handguns on A&M-San Antonio, as long as the weapon remains concealed.
Until the A&M Board of Regents makes any changes to the recommendation, UPD is taking safety precautions.
Ron Davidson, chief of A&M police force, said UPD is preparing for the new law’s implementation, and is providing Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) classes to the community.
“No guns or any type of weapons as of now are allowed inside A&M-San Antonio,” Morrison said. “The closest someone can get to campus with a gun is if they have it locked in their vehicle.”
Bringing a gun to campus [buildings] counts as a felony, he added.
Anyone who feels threatened should call the A&M-San Antonio Campus Police at 210-784-1911. In case of an emergency, dial 911.
For more information about the open carry and free zones at A&M-San Antonio visit, Texas A&M-San Antonio’s website here.
