Missouri lawmakers have given first round approval to a bill that involves concealed firearms on college campuses.
The law would help people protect themselves from threats and sexual assault, said the bill's sponsor, Rep. Jered Taylor, of Republic.
"It is up to individuals to protect themselves," Taylor said. "We can't rely on law enforcement. They're minutes away when your life is being threatened immediately and you need to take action."
The measure passed 98-42. It would require a permit to carry on campus.
Opponents argue that a concealed-carry law would not make campuses safer.
"This is not the way that we should be trying to protect our young people at our schools and colleges," said Rep. Greg Taylor, of Kansas City.
The measure was added to a bill that would allow some faculty and staff to carry weapons as designated campus security officers.
Some lawmakers took issue with an idea that armed women can protect themselves from sexual assault, arguing that most rapes are committed by acquaintances, not strangers.
