SALT LAKE CITY – University of Utah officials and the Utah state legislature have agreed on a compromise that if passed, would restrict guns in specific areas on campus.
Senate Bill 251 would enable state-funded universities to restrict licensed concealed weapons only in faculty offices and student dormitories. If passed, the bill could end an ongoing dispute between the University of Utah and state legislature over the university’s right to impose a gun ban on campus. The dispute began in 2004 when a law was passed disallowing universities and other such state agencies from imposing gun bans on those licensed to carry concealed weapons in public.
The exceptions granted by this bill were agreed upon under the condition that the University of Utah drop federal legal action it has taken against the state. Though dissatisfied with the limitations the bill places on gun restrictions, university officials conceded it was their best opportunity to ensure campus safety.
