General Counsel Conceal Carry Frequently Asked Questions
Emporia State Conceal and Carry FAQ
This FAQ has been prepared by the General Counsel’s Office. If you have any questions about this FAQ or about issues not addressed in this FAQ, please contact Steven Lovett at slovett1@emporia.edu.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why are people allowed to carry and store concealed handguns on the ESU campus?
Kansas law, “the Personal and Family Protection Act [K.S.A. 75-7c01 et seq.]” allows individuals to carry a concealed handgun in most places throughout Kansas, including university campuses.
- What type of gun can be carried and stored on the ESU campus?
Handguns can be carried if they are concealed or stored as described below. The “open carry” of handguns is prohibited. Rifles and shotguns cannot be carried into any building on the ESU campus.
- Who can carry and store a concealed handgun on the ESU campus?
U.S. citizens and permanent residents who are not otherwise prohibited by law from carrying a concealed handgun. Persons 18 – 21 must have a state issued Concealed Carry License. Persons 21 and older do not need to have the Concealed Carry License.
- How must a concealed handgun be carried?
A concealed handgun must be carried in a holster that covers the trigger and also secures any external hammer. Handguns with an external safety must be carried with the safety in the “on” position. Handguns may be carried loaded with ammunition, but not with a round (bullet) in the chamber. Handguns in holsters can be concealed on an individual’s body or clothing, as well as in a purse, bag, backpack, or other container. A backpack, etc., in which a handgun is concealed must remain within the immediate control of the individual at all times.
- Where can a concealed handgun be carried?
Anywhere on the ESU campus. There are no prohibited areas or restricted access areas on the ESU campus.
- Where and how can a handgun be stored?
Handguns can be stored in two places only: (1) in an individual’s vehicle if the handgun is stored out of view and if the vehicle is locked when the individual is not present; or, (2) in a student’s own room in a residence hall, but only if the handgun is kept in a locked gun safe. Ammunition must also be stored in a gun safe while in a room in a residence hall.
- Can a student clean, repair, or perform maintenance on their handgun in their room?
No. Cleaning, repairs, and any type of maintenance or other work on a handgun must be done off campus.
- Does the University know who carries or stores a concealed handgun?
No. The law prohibits asking or attempting to determine by any method who is or who plans on carrying or storing a handgun pursuant to this policy.
- What do I do if I think someone is violating University policy?
Contact ESU Campus Police and Safety (620-341-5337). They will investigate all reports.
- What can happen to a person who violates this policy?
The consequences of a confirmed violation of this policy will be determined on a case by case basis. Existing University disciplinary and review policies will be used to determine whether the policy has been violated. Minor violations may not have a formal consequence, while serious violations can result in a range of options, up to and including termination of employment or expulsion from the University.