Georgia Law Allows Guns at University Tailgate Events
A new Georgia law allows guns at public university tailgating events but not inside the sporting arenas.
Going into effect on July 1, a new law in Georgia will allow fans with concealed firearm permits to legally carry handguns during tailgating events at public universities. Guns, however, will still not be allowed inside the athletic events.
The University of Georgia addressed how the new law will affect the six home football games at Sanford Stadium in 2017.
Chancellor Steve Wrigley wrote in a memo to the students, faculty and staff of the university that currently concealed firearms carriers are allowed to leave their weapons secured in vehicles during events such as university tailgates, but as of July 1, that will change.
“House Bill 280 will allow anyone who is properly licensed in the state of Georgia to carry a handgun in a concealed manner on property owned or leased by public colleges and universities with some exceptions,” the Wrigley said in the memo.
Wrigley assured students that the bill will not allow any other type of gun to be carried around campus; nor will it allow handguns to be carried openly. He also added that despite the new law, institutions do not have to provide gun storage facilities or erect signs outside restricted areas, so it is up to the individual to know the full extent of the law.
Wrigley concluded his memo by saying, “Our mission (of safety) remains unchanged before and after July 1.”