What is the difference between “Open Carry” and “Campus Carry”?
Open Carry
The “Open Carry” legislation provides that holders of a handgun license may now carry their handgun visibly in a waist belt holster or a shoulder holster but they may not openly carry on or in a college campus or building and they may not openly carry on any public or private driveway, street, sidewalk or walkway, parking lot, parking garage or other parking area of the college.
Campus Carry
The Campus Carry legislation permits handgun license holders to carry a concealed handgun on TSC campuses and into many TSC buildings. While the “Open Carry” legislation allows license holders to openly carry their handguns in various locations in the State of Texas, the “Campus Carry” legislation only broadens the right for license holders to carry handguns in a concealed manner in certain college buildings with exceptions. Click on this link for excluded buildings, where a handgun – even if concealed – is not allowed (Campus Carry Exclusion Zones).
What should I do if I see a handgun on campus and feel threatened?
If you see a visible handgun on campus, contact the campus security immediately at 956.295.3700.
What should I do if I see a classmate with a gun?
The law and TSC prohibit the visible display of handguns, and license holders should know that handguns they carry on campus, even if concealed, are currently prohibited. Contact campus security at 956.295.3700 if you have a concern.
How will TSC manage someone who has a firearm and is exhibiting threatening behavior?
It is a criminal act to exhibit threatening behavior with a firearm, regardless of the individual’s handgun license status. When a crime is committed on campus, campus security officers will respond and take appropriate law enforcement action. Penalties under the law for violating open carry laws may result in a Class A misdemeanor where a license holder receives notice (by oral or written communication) that openly carrying is prohibited and fails to depart the college campus.
Questions?
For any questions, comments, or concerns, please email [email protected]