Can teachers in Texas carry guns?

Can Teachers in Texas Carry Guns?

The debate about teachers carrying guns in the classroom has been a contentious issue in the United States, especially in the wake of devastating school shootings. In Texas, the discussion has become even more complex due to the state’s unique set of laws and regulations surrounding firearms. In this article, we will delve into the answer to the question Can teachers in Texas carry guns? and examine the complexities surrounding this topic.

What is Texas’s Law on Teachers and Guns?

Texas laws regarding teachers and guns can be found in the state’s Education Code and Gun-Free School Zones Act. According to Texas Education Code §22.075, teachers and other public school employees are prohibited from carrying firearms on school premises, except for peace officers and security personnel. Additionally, Texas Penal Code §30.06 explicitly prohibits the carrying of weapons, including firearms, in a school zone, with certain exceptions.

Arming Teachers: The Alternative

In 2017, the Texas Legislature introduced House Bill 18 (HB 18), also known as the "Protect Texas Schools Act." While the bill did not grant teachers the authority to carry guns, it did permit school districts to develop a plan to arm teachers in certain circumstances. According to the bill, if a school district develops an arming teachers plan and receives approval from the State Board of Education, then teachers can carry concealed weapons on school premises.

However, the bill’s limitations and restrictions made it unpopular among many educators and citizens. The bill required that teachers undergo 80 hours of training, including firearm training, and that school districts provide liability insurance and mental health services for arming teachers. Furthermore, the bill did not exempt teachers from the requirement of obtaining a concealed carry license, which is already difficult to obtain in Texas due to strict regulations.

Current State of Affairs

Fast-forward to 2020, and the debate continues. In January 2020, the Texas School Safety Center released a study recommending that schools adopt comprehensive safety plans, including alternative response options to traditional armed law enforcement. The report emphasized the importance of fostering a safe and supportive school environment, rather than arming teachers.

Why Arming Teachers is NOT the Solution

While arming teachers may seem like a viable option to increase school safety, there are several reasons why it is not the most effective solution:

• Training and Competence: Teachers are not trained in law enforcement procedures, tactical operations, or crisis intervention. Arming teachers could lead to accidental discharges, misunderstandings, and unintended consequences.
• Liability and Legal Issues: Schools and teachers may face legal and financial risks if a student is harmed or killed by a teacher carrying a gun.
• Student and Community Distrust: Arming teachers could lead to mistrust among students, staff, and the community, potentially exacerbating existing concerns about school safety.
• Alternative Solutions: The Texas School Safety Center recommends alternative response options, such as active shooter drills, crisis intervention training, and mental health services, to improve school safety.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the debate about teachers carrying guns in Texas will likely continue, the existing laws and regulations prohibit it. The limitations and restrictions of HB 18 highlight the complexities and challenges involved in arming teachers. Instead, alternative solutions focus on fostering a safe and supportive school environment, such as comprehensive safety plans, crisis intervention training, and mental health services.