Chief Halvorsen warns North Dakota lawmakers on open carry firearms in colleges

A recent meeting of the House Energy and Natural Resources Committee in North Dakota highlighted significant concerns regarding proposed legislation that would allow open carry of firearms on college campuses. Chief Halvorsen, a law enforcement and education professional with over three decades of experience, voiced strong opposition to the bill, emphasizing the potential dangers it could pose to students and faculty.

Halvorsen described a scenario where an individual openly carrying an assault rifle could enter a crowded college event, such as a basketball game. Under the proposed law, law enforcement would be limited in their ability to intervene unless a threat was explicitly made, creating a situation where alarming behavior could be legally permissible. He expressed concern that this could lead to increased anxiety among students and staff, particularly in high-stress environments like classrooms.

The chief raised alarms about the implications of firearms being accessible in residential halls, fearing that intoxicated students might display weapons, leading to accidental discharges or escalating conflicts. He also highlighted the risk posed to vulnerable individuals, such as students struggling with mental health issues, who might have easier access to firearms.

Halvorsen urged lawmakers to reconsider the legislation, arguing that it would make North Dakota's college campuses less inviting and more intimidating. He believes that the majority of North Dakotans, including responsible gun owners, would reject the idea of open carry in educational settings.

The committee also discussed previous legislation that allowed shooting teams to store firearms securely on campus, which was a separate issue from the current open carry proposal. However, Halvorsen clarified that existing policies do not extend to public members, and any attempt to regulate firearms on campus would require significant resources, such as metal detectors at every entrance, which is impractical.

As the committee continues to deliberate on this contentious issue, the potential impact on campus safety and community well-being remains a pressing concern for many stakeholders. The discussions reflect a broader conversation about balancing Second Amendment rights with the need for safe educational environments.