Although the preliminary guidelines for legalizing individuals the right to carry concealed handguns has been outlined, loop-holes have developed a cause of concern because of the perpetual safety effects they could inflict upon Ohio State students.
Rick Amweg, the assistant chief of police for University Police, said he is working with other university officials to determine the proper handling and enforcement of the law.
“Concealed weapon carrying is such a huge step, so we currently have it under review by the University of Legal Affairs. We need to completely understand all the possible ramifications before we can legally proceed forward,” Amweg said.
The bill states no person shall be able to carry a concealed weapon onto any public property, such as a school safety zone or university, but an OSU student may lock the handgun in his or her vehicle while attending campus classes. Stipulations regarding students’ safety have broadened, fearing a gun left in a student’s car could potentially become a threat to campus security.
A problematic situation some officials, including Mike Weinman, a legislative liaison for the Columbus Division of Police, have predicted is the frequent occurrence of automobile theft while on campus property.
“Something we are worried about is that cars are already broken into all the time while on campus, but now with the possibility of having a concealed weapon in your car, the vehicle may become more susceptible to auto burglary,” Weinman said. “Now, not only do we have a problem with theft, but also with a criminal carrying a stolen gun.”
Students renting off-campus housing who possess a gun may encounter problems if their landlord condemns the storage or holding of a concealed gun on their private property. The landlord may utilize signs to deter its tenants, or simply vocalize their sentiments, from containing concealed guns in the home – both of which must be legally respected. Failure to recognize the landlords wishes could result in a legal dispute.
“Having more guns around campus is not exactly a comforting feeling, but if a female ever has a momentary lapse of not feeling safe, I can understand how she would want to buy a gun,” said Beth Homyak, a junior in marketing.
