Guns Still Not Allowed on OU Campuses

The state of Oklahoma’s recent law allowing those 21 years old and older to carry a concealed or open firearm without a permit goes into effect on Nov. 1. However, this law does not apply to higher education campuses including the Norman, Health Sciences Center and Tulsa campuses of the University of Oklahoma. Nothing in the new law changes locations where firearms are allowed.  Universities and vocational-technical schools across the state will still be among the several locations where firearms carry is prohibited by law.

“We want members of the OU community to be mindful of the changes to Oklahoma law while understanding campus rules,” said OUPD Chief Liz Woollen. “If you see anyone on campus with any type of weapon, call 911 and OUPD will intervene. If you see a person acting in a threatening manner with a weapon on non-campus property call 911 for Norman Police Department to investigate.”

Woollen added, “For areas adjacent to campus, like Greek Row, the key is if the individual is acting in a threatening manner. The new law will make it legal for a person to walk the street openly carrying a weapon without a permit.”

Credible threats that impact the University community and call for the dissemination of an Emergency Alert include an active shooter, a gas leak, a large fire, bomb threats, inclement weather and area lockdowns.

Article Published: Wednesday, October 23, 2019