Texas Campus Carry

So, after reading JR's article on the status of HB1893, I wrote my Rep as he is one of the two that changed their mind and withdrew their support. Here is the letter I sent him;

Rep. Brown,
I am disconcerted by your lack of support for the campus carry bill HB1893. As my representative, I would ask that you consider the law abiding CHL holders that work for Texas A&M University and whom you also represent. You are saying by your actions, that you do not trust those people who have been through the extremely rigorous background check and training process required for obtaining a Texas CHL. There is ample evidence to show that Texas CHL holders are more trust worthy than the general population based on rates of conviction for misdemeanor and felony offenses. Do you really wish to say to those you represent that you do not trust them? Is there some imaginary line surrounding college campuses that make normally lawful people freak out and turn them into killers? You are forcing those who would otherwise be responsible for their own safety to give up that CIVIL RIGHT and creating an open killing field for deranged killers who would otherwise risk facing an armed potential victim.

I therefore ask that you truly represent those who elected you and support this bill.

Best Regards,
XXXX X. XXXXXX

Here is the canned reply I got back from one of his staffers.

Thank you for contacting my office to voice your support for House Bill 1893, regarding the concealed carrying of handguns on college campuses. In my role as an elected official for the state of Texas, I always try to do what I deem necessary and most beneficial for my constituents and my state. As a supporter of the Second Amendment and a member of the NRA, I feel strongly that responsible Texans should be permitted to bear arms for personal safety and recreation. However, I also understand the concerns of those who oppose House Bill 1893.

As you know, I am one of only a handful of house members whose district includes a major public university. As a result, I am keenly aware of both the benefits and the potential consequences associated with this kind of legislation. I also plan on working directly with Representative Joe Driver and Senator Jeff Wentworth to address the concerns of all parties before moving this bill forward. I firmly believe that this important issue warrants only the most serious and deliberative consideration and I plan to make the most informed decision possible before this measure is presented to the full legislative body.

I consider it an honor and a privilege to serve the constituents of District 14, and I must make decisions as a legislator with all of their interests and voices in mind. Again, thank you for sharing your concerns. Please be assured that your comments have been recorded and will be seriously considered when this issue comes before me on the House Floor.

I invite you to participate in the legislative process via http://www.capitol.state.tx.us. Links to proposed legislation, broadcasted meetings, calendars, voting records and other pertinent information are provided.

If we can assist you further, please do not hesitate to contact us again.

Sincerely,

Fred Brown

State Representative

So, he is basing this on opposition from A&M as an institution? Unless it is coming from the presidents office as a political thing, A&M is actually a pretty conservative place and I know there is plenty of support on campus for this bill.


UPDATE:
I sent a reply back to Rep Browns office and have received a response from his chief of staff. We are trading e-mails at the moment and when I have an answer worth publishing I will add to this post.

UPDATED UPDATE:
His chief of staff replied with his cell phone number and suggested I call him to discuss in person. That he is likely to vote for the bill but removed his name as cosponsor since it was such a controversial bill. He is on the house floor at the moment so I will be calling him later to chat.

MORNING UPDATE:
Talked to Rep Brown late last night. This is worthy of a followup post o fit's own. Look UP.