UT System Leader Expresses Concerns Over Campus Carry

As lawmakers prepare to discuss allowing concealed handguns in college and university buildings on Thursday, the chancellor of the state's largest university system continues to express his concerns with such proposals.

University of Texas System Chancellor Francisco Cigarroa sent a letter Tuesday to Gov. Rick Perry reiterating the concerns he expressed in the previous legislative session when the issue came up.

Like in 2011, Cigarroa said he respects the Legislature's authority to make the ultimate decision, but noted that he had heard objections to campus carry from a wide range of constituents, including "parents, students, faculty, staff, administrators, and institutional law enforcement officers."

"Both supporters and opponents of permitting concealed handguns on university campuses believe their approach will make campuses safer," Cigarroa wrote. "I believe that, on balance, the permitted presence of concealed weapons will contribute to a less-safe campus environment."

A number of bills relating to the state's gun policies, including concealed carry on college campuses, will be discussed in Thursday's meeting of the House Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety, which is chaired by state Rep. Joe Pickett, D-El Paso.

Here is Cigarroa's letter: