JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — People with concealed carry-permits are a step closer to carrying guns on college campuses in Florida.
A Senate committee narrowly approved the proposal Monday night.
The proposed bill would get rid of a longstanding ban on carrying concealed weapons on public campuses, and it would only apply to people with concealed carry licenses.
"I believe that it makes it a safer place," University of North Florida graduate student Olivia Scheffler said in support of the proposal. "I think if you're of age to carry one, and you have a license to carry one, I see absolutely no problem with it at all."
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Some UNF students told Action News they are worried the presence of guns could lead to dangerous situations.
"I believe it would lend itself to the possibility of somebody flying off the handle," UNF student Curt Price said.
"I would feel more unsafe knowing that students had guns on them or were able to carry those in class," UNF student Renee Hutchins said.
All 12 of Florida's public universities have taken a stand against the bill.
In a statement, UNF told Action News: "Florida has long recognized the importance of protecting its students and the environment in which they learn by prohibiting firearms in university facilities. The State University System of Florida is similarly committed to the safety and security of all students, which is why university law enforcement officers have received extensive training on how to minimize harm in crisis scenarios. The Florida Board of Governors, University Police Chiefs and all 12 of Florida's public universities are united in the belief that removing that long-standing protection is contrary to the values we embrace and could create new challenges in our ability to provide a safe and secure learning environment."
The Florida Sheriff's Association has not taken a position on the proposal.