INFORMATION FOR PARENTS
What is the Law?
In very simple terms, the Kansas Personal and Family Protection Act allows the carrying of concealed handguns into most state buildings. Kansas Board of Regents and KU policy further describe campus specific procedures related for safe possession, use and storage of such weapons.
Where is Concealed Carry Prohibited?
Except for law enforcement officials, individuals may not carry a concealed handgun in locations where the university provides adequate security measures. Generally, concealed carry restrictions are event-based, for example, KU Athletics facilities where attendance is expected to be more than 5,000, or during some other large public events, where metal detectors and personnel are on hand as part of the event arrangements. With the exception of law enforcement officers, no one may carry a firearm of any type into any secured area in the facilities of the University Police. This list may expand as additional locations meet requirements.
What are Adequate Security Measures?
‘‘Adequate security measures’’ means the use of electronic equipment and armed personnel at public entrances to detect and restrict the carrying of any weapons into the state or municipal building, or any public area thereof, including, but not limited to, metal detectors, metal detector wands or any other equipment used for similar purposes to ensure that weapons are not permitted to be carried into such building by members of the public.
Where is Concealed Carry Allowed?
Concealed carry of handguns is allowed in most buildings on the Lawrence and Edwards campuses. The law does not allow individual instructors or employees to prohibit concealed carry of handguns in classrooms, labs, or offices to which they are assigned, unless adequate security measures (detectors and armed personnel) are provided at all public entrances to the space.
Is Concealed Carry Allowed in My Student’s Residence Hall or Campus Apartment?
Yes, residents who carry a concealed handgun will be responsible for knowing and following all laws and policies. Kansas residents age 18-20 must undergo training and have a provisional license in order to carry a concealed handgun.
When not on the person, concealed handguns should be stored in a secure storage device. Residents are responsible for acquiring their own approved handgun storage device.
What is the Policy?
KU and KBOR policy define the safe possession of handguns and responsibilities of the carrier. Simply put, handguns must be secured in a holster that covers the trigger area and secures any external hammer in an un-cocked position. The safety must be on, and the handgun must be carried without a chambered round of ammunition. The handgun must also not be seen by others and be under the carrier's custody and control – on the body or in a backpack or purse – or in a safe storage device or secure location – such as a locked vehicle. Except when necessary for transferring to safe storage or self-defense, a handgun must not be openly displayed. Violations of policy may result in individuals being asked to leave campus with the weapon and being cited for trespass if they refuse. University employees or students who violate policy may face discipline through applicable university codes of conduct. Learn more by reviewing the policy.
Who May Carry a Concealed Handgun?
Individuals age 21 and older who are not otherwise prohibited by state or federal law from possessing a firearm may carry a concealed weapon. A license is not required to carry. Kansas residents age 18 to 20 may secure a provisional license for the purposes of carrying a concealed handgun. The license requires completion of a safety training course. Kansas law also recognizes concealed carry laws of other states (reciprocity). An out-of-state student or visitor age 18 to 20 who chooses to carry may do so depending on the laws of their home state.
It is not lawful to carry a firearm when under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Federal regulations prohibit individuals with a nonimmigrant visa from possessing or receiving firearms or ammunition.
What is Considered “Concealed”?
Handguns must be in a holster on the body of the carrier and concealed by clothing. Handguns may also be kept concealed in a backpack or purse provided the backpack or purse is under the custody and control of the person. If a handgun is stored in a vehicle on campus, the handgun must be secured and concealed from view. KU policy also mandates additional conditions for all concealed handguns. It is the responsibility of the carrier to ensure the handgun is kept securely and not seen.
Is Open Carry Allowed?
No. Open carry of handguns or other firearms is not permitted on either the Lawrence or Edwards campuses. Anyone who sees an openly carried firearm on campus should call 911 immediately.
Can I Sign Up for the Campus Alert Service?
Individuals can view updates to emergency notifications and campus closures (typically weather-related) by visiting KU Alerts or by following the university’s official Twitter account. Students are automatically subscribed to emergency text messages. Since 2017 when the state’s public building exemption ended, KU has had no reported incidents involving concealed carry on campus.
In the Event of an Emergency, What Should I Do?
In the unlikely event of a campus attack visit KU Alerts. The site will provide updates and information as well as issue an all-clear notice. Should an active attack occur, please refrain from immediately calling your student as audible notifications on cell phones could disclose your student’s location to an attacker.
The University of Kansas is obliged to follow this law. Any changes to the law must come through the state legislative process.