COLLEGE STATION, Texas - As thousands of students continued to arrive on the A&M campus Monday, some of them were confused with their new reality regarding campus carry.
Even though students gave "guns on campus" mixed reviews, some of them didn't know what campus carry really means.
"Well, campus carry is you can carry it on the campus openly," said John Nelson.
Another student told us she didn't even know what campus carry was. But the biggest point of confusion was the difference between campus carry and open carry.
"No, I don't necessarily know the difference," said Adam Maher.
"Senate Bill 11, allows for concealed carry on campus, not open carry," said Lt. Allan Baron with the Texas A&M Police. "Individuals that open carry on campus would be in violation of the law."
Violators can face misdemeanor charges and fines if caught openly displaying a gun or taking them into the wrong place. We spotted signs on certain buildings that don't allow guns.
Some areas were firearms aren't allowed include athletic areas where intercollegiate and interscholastic events are underway. Becky Gates Children's Center, All Faiths Chapel, and places where counseling and health services are provided also don't allow guns.
The students we spoke with said more information is needed.
"I didn't know the difference between open carry and campus carry," said Maher. "So, I think it's obviously very important to know. Firearms are very dangerous."
To help students learn more about the campus carry rules, the TAMU Police are holding a meeting in 601 Rudder on Tuesday, Aug. 23 at 4:30 p.m.
There is also more information on campus carry on Texas A&M's website.
