Guns on campus bill passes Senate committee 7-2

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Students, staff and visitors are closer to being able to tote concealed firearms on Idaho college campuses.

The Senate State Affairs Committee voted 7-2 to move it forward Wednesday, over objections from the heads of Idaho's colleges and universities.

The party-line vote came as proponents argue the bill, which allows retired law enforcement and enhanced concealed carry permit holders to bring firearms to class, bolsters second amendment rights and allows students and staff to protect themselves.

BSU psychology professor Kimberly McAdams was among those behind the measure, describing her terror when a former student threatened to kill her.

But the measure was widely panned by college leaders who argued it stripped them of decision-making and left them unable to guarantee student safety.

The bill now heads to the full Senate.