In South Dakota, a new bill could soon allow students to carry concealed handguns on college campuses. The bill has passed both the House and Senate and is now waiting for Governor Larry Rhoden’s signature. If signed, the law will let people with firearms training carry guns at college.

Will concealed handguns on college campuses improve safety?

Rep. Spencer Gosch, who supported the bill, believes it’s important for students to protect themselves. He said, “It’s a great bill for the citizens of South Dakota to be able to protect themselves the way God intended.” He wants students to have the right to defend themselves with concealed handguns.

The bill passed with a vote of 55-14 in the House. It also passed in the Senate with only two senators voting against it. The bill is now very close to becoming law.

How South Dakota’s proposed bill could change campus security

The bill was created by Sen. Mykala Voita. She made changes to the bill after getting input from the Board of Regents. Colleges could ban concealed handguns near chemicals that can catch fire. Guns also have to be locked up in dorm rooms.

To carry a gun on campus, people need an enhanced concealed carry permit. To get this permit, they must finish a safety course. This new rule is meant to make sure people have proper training for carrying concealed handguns.

The debate around allowing concealed handguns

Some people worry about the bill. Rep. Jim Halverson, a former Highway Patrol trooper, spoke against it. He said he couldn’t support the bill because it made him uncomfortable. College students may not treat concealed handguns with the care they need. He also mentioned that law enforcement and military members spend a lot of time securing their weapons.

Rep. Halverson said, “A locked box in a dorm room just doesn’t seem like a good plan.” He is concerned that students may not handle guns safely.

Mental health and suicide concerns remain a major part

Rep. Erik Muckey, who works with a nonprofit for suicide prevention, also spoke against the bill. He said suicide is the leading cause of death for college students in South Dakota. He added that South Dakota’s suicide rate by firearm is much higher than the national average.

Muckey believes the bill could increase the risk of suicide with the presence of concealed handguns on campus. He said, “I hate seeing that statistic because it hurts my heart.”

Despite the concerns, Rep. Marty Overweg disagreed. He believes adults should be able to make their own decisions. Overweg said, “The right to bear arms and protect oneself shouldn’t be infringed upon just because I’m worried something bad might happen.”

He argues that people 18 and older should have the right to protect themselves. He believes this right is important for everyone, no matter what risks may exist.