Bills to Consuder Guns on Campus in Missouri

(AP) – Two Republican Missouri lawmakers want to allow concealed carry of firearms on college campuses.

State senators this past week filed legislation to lift the current ban on concealed carry at higher education institutions.

A bill filed by GOP Sen. Brian Munzlinger, of Williamstown, also includes a provision that would allow colleges to opt out. They would need to apply with the state Department of Public Safety and staff all building entrances with security guards and weapons detectors.

The proposed legislation comes amid debate over how to prevent campus gun violence following last month’s shooting at Umpqua Community College in Oregon.

Supporters say lawful gun owners should be allowed to bring weapons on campuses for protection. Some Democratic lawmakers blasted the Missouri bills and said guns won’t prevent more shootings.