UCCS defines concealed carry in student housing

The University of Colorado Colorado Springs is defining how concealed carry will work on campus.

A ruling by the Colorado Supreme Court in March says students with state-issued concealed carry permits are allowed to have weapons on campus.

Students living on campus with permits will have to present their permits to the housing director.

Those who have permits will be allowed to live in the upper division housing area for upperclassmen.

UCCS says concealed weapons will not be allowed in housing areas designated for freshmen. Since students staying in freshmen housing are generally under the age of 21, they are not eligible for concealed carry permits.

UCCS is also asking the weapons not be brought to any large campus events such as ticketed athletic and cultural events.

According to university officials, students will have the option of securing weapons in an approved gun safe in their room. That safe will be provided by the university at no cost to the student.

“The safety of our students, faculty, staff and visitors is a top priority,” UCCS Chancellor Pam Shockley-Zalabak said. “UCCS will implement all practices as directed by the CU Board of Regents with this priority in mind and in accordance with state and federal law.”

UCCS says it will follow the CU Board of Regents policy that prevents the open display of weapons including guns, explosives and knives on campus.

Housing contracts are being finalized and are expected to be sent out in the coming weeks.

University classes start Monday.