The House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee voted Monday to pass House Bill 280, which would allow anyone with a concealed weapons permit to carry firearms on public college and university campuses, with the exception of inside dormitories, fraternity and sorority houses, and buildings used for athletic events. The bill also would require guns to be concealed and only those who hold a permit would be allowed to carry the weapons.

"This bill is about changing the dynamic" to provide the "basic, essential right of self-preservation" said state Rep. Mandi Ballinger, R-Canton, the bill's sponsor.