The right to own and carry guns is at the top of the list of hot button issues in America, especially in Texas.

With the gun debate at a high, it’s not surprising then that emotions are running high at the Texas Capitol as lawmakers debate bills that would expand access to guns in new places across the state.

One bill would allow college students who possess a concealed handgun license to carry guns on college campuses. A second bill would allow concealed weapons permit holders to carry holstered handguns openly in public.

Currently, state law allows the open carrying of long guns like rifles and shotguns, but handguns may only be carried in a concealed fashion by those with a license.

The Eagle’s Eye editorial board believes that lawmakers should be mindful of the consequences that could result if these bills are approved.

While the board is not unanimous in its opposition to these bills, the majority of members believe the ability to openly carry and campus carry would heighten danger and casualties.

In a poll taken by the Texas Tribune, 10 percent of voters think handguns should always be allowed even without a license, while 23 percent don’t think guns should ever be allowed on a person in public. Finally, 22 percent of voters don’t have a preference on whether or not the gun is concealed or not, and 45 percent will allow for handguns only if they’re concealed and hidden.

Another Texas Tribune poll shows that 47 percent of voters support campus carry, 45 percent oppose, and 8 percent don’t have a preference.

On April 16, 2007 – almost 8 years ago – a senior at Virginia Tech opened fire on fellow students. During the shooting spree, 32 people died, and 17 others were wounded before the shooter, Seung-Hui Cho, committed suicide.

The tragedy still looms over our heads, and especially for those against the campus carry bill, like the University of Texas’ System Chancellor, William McRaven.

McRaven has clearly stated his position in the topic, stepping onto the side against letting students carry a gun on campus.

“There is a great concern that the presence of handguns … will lead to an increase in both accidental shootings and self-inflicted wounds,” McRaven wrote in a letter to the Legislature.

The few students who are in favor of the bills being passed believe the campus carry law would allow students to better protect themselves in case of emergency. They also believe the open carry law, would make non-law abiding citizens think twice before making the wrong decision.

However, most of the editorial board disagrees and opposes both of the bills.

If campus carry becomes law guns will be allowed where they have no place.

We believe the Legislature needs to reconsider the danger these two gun laws could bring, and take into account the risk they would be taking to allow them to pass.

College campuses are for learning, and furthering your education in what you want to do for a living, not a place for artillery. Guns create tension that shouldn’t be prominent in an education setting.

Knowing a fellow citizen has a gun on them could restrict people’s ability to voice their opinion, which defeats the purpose of college and further challenges the beliefs of freedom of speech.