Idaho bill S.1254 would allow enhanced concealed carry licensees to carry on public college campuses, except in dorms, and entertainment facilities seating more than 1000 (sports stadiums, effectively). It also provides enhanced penalties for carrying on a college campus, even with a permit, while intoxicated.
I really do not think limiting this to the enhanced concealed license was necessary or appropriate, but I can understand the reasoning: the 21 and over requirement and the training requirement will make the nervous nellies a bit less scared. I'll keep my eye on this bill, and go and testify in support of it, of course. As usual, gun rights sorts in Idaho never ask my opinion or suggestions on this sort of thing.
Does this mean that a college student living in a dorm can't carry? They could carry concealed OUTSIDE the dorm, but must either open carry within the dorm (is that allowed?), or not enter the dorm with the weapon (so they must store the weapon elsewhere and travel to/from the dorm without a weapon).
ReplyDeleteThat's my read on it. I believe that they will not be allowed to possess a firearm in the dorms. Off-campus apartments that the university rents out would be allowed, it appears.
ReplyDeleteClayton,
ReplyDeleteBased upon Heller et al as an individual right, can the State legitimately prevent a student from "keeping" a firearm in his personal area in a dorm. For instance, if it is in a location that a law enforcement officer would need a warrant to search, does the student have both a reasonable expectation of privacy in said location as his domicile, and therefore his "keeping" in the domicile different (and protected) and other than "carrying concealed"?
Unfortunately, Idaho judges have so far refused to accept the idea that even a university-owned off-campus apartment gives a renter that kind of rights. Yes: even an apartment rented by the student off campus have restrictions on gun possession in Idaho.
ReplyDeleteIt does seem like this bill, while not perfect, would be at least a move in the right direction for individuals who work or study at public colleges and who want to take responsibility for their personal safety.
ReplyDelete