Community colleges in Central Texas, including McLennan Community College and Central Texas College, have been developing campus carry policies in anticipation of the law going into effect on Aug. 1.
At MCC, license holders will be able to carry concealed weapons in most of the areas of campus. However, some areas like the Child Development Center, the Community Clinic and the MCC Counseling Center will remain gun-free zones.
MCC Emergency Manager Robert Page said they are ready for it.
"We have done everything that is required of us. We have our signage up,we have a website created, which was required and we have lots of good information. We were offering classes that explained the policy," Page said.
However, on Wednesday at least two students News Channel 25 spoke with did not know campus carry will go into effect next week.
"I'm not going to say I'm a little bit scared but I am a little bit on edge. It's going to make me aware and pay attention to my surroundings a little bit more," MCC Student Yasmine Cabiness said.
The 22-year-old who has mixed feelings about it said she planned to research more about the policy.
Under the new policy, temporary signs banning guns will be placed at UIL-sanctioned competitions, at the Bosque River Ballpark and The Highlands gym when sporting events are being held.
In addition, guns will be banned from locations of any college event where alcohol is being served.
"Even though you personally might not be drinking but there could be people around you that are drinking. We just didn't want that mixed. We just adapted that from the law and said no guns during those times," Page said.
Under the law, a handgun should not be visible. If it is, you are advised to contact campus police. Only officers can ask to see a concealed carry license.
MCC plans to offer a course called campus carry and the law, which explains the legal ramifications if you decide that you need to draw or discharge a handgun on campus.
At CTC, there will be presentations about the policy through December. The next one is scheduled for Aug. 7 at 9 a.m. at the Anderson Campus Center.
To learn more about the CTC policy, click here.
To learn more about the MCC policy, click here.
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