On the recordFebruary 23, 2010
In 2009, bills aimed at weakening the ability of universities to regulate the possession of firearms on campus were introduced in 12 State legislatures, including the Michigan State Legislature. In 2008, 17 States saw similar legislation introduced. Fortunately for the safety of students, faculty, and visitors, none of these bills passed. In fact, according to the Wall Street Journal, as of July 2009, State legislative efforts to allow firearms on college campuses had been defeated 34 straight times nationwide. However, while this statistic demonstrates a clear national consensus that guns do not belong at universities, the National Rifle Association, NRA, continues to push for weaker gun regulations. Already in 2010, efforts have been undertaken that would weaken the ability of colleges to determine their own security needs in Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, and Colorado. These legislative efforts are part of a strategy to pressure State legislatures into passing legislation that would force colleges to allow the possession and use of firearms by students, faculty, and others on campus.
