Representative Kim Thatcher: University firearm issue update

By In the news
In: Measure 37
Thursday July 2, 2009

University System “Non-Response” on Firearms Issue
By State Representative Kim Thatcher,

(Salem) The Oregon University System (OUS) responded to a letter from 34 legislators urging them to revise their policies on whether holders of a Concealed Handgun License (CHL) could carry firearms on campus. Below is a statement by State Representative Kim Thatcher (R-Keizer, Newberg, St. Paul) regarding this new development.

“While I thank the University System for their consideration of this matter, the response we received is a “˜non-response’. The outcome of the case in Medford could take years to resolve if it goes all the way to the US Supreme Court level. Meanwhile, lawful citizens of our state are being denied a legal right to have firearms on our college campuses if they have a CHL. I find it ironic that the OUS wants to leave the final decision up to the Oregon Legislature since it is that body which already passed a state law stating very clearly that CHL holders are allowed to carry on University campuses. The fact remains that people with CHLs are expected to, and do conduct themselves to a higher standard than most people. Their ability to conduct themselves properly does not end the moment they cross the property line of a college. I would hate to see further legal action, but that may be the only remedy for some of the parties at this point. I do appreciate the University System’s willingness to review this matter, I am hopeful the policies will change to comply with current Oregon law as soon as possible.”

For further background on this issue use the following links:

1) Letter from OUS to Legislators June 30th, 2009

http://www.leg.state.or.us/press_releases/thatcher_061809.pdf

2) Letter Sent to OUS June 18th, 2009 http://www.leg.state.or.us/press_releases/thatcher_061809.pdf

http://www.leg.state.or.us/press_releases/thatcher_061809.pdf

3) Letter Sent to OUS February 6th, 2009

http://www.leg.state.or.us/press_releases/thatcher_020609.pdf

4) Oregon Revised Statues 166.170 Oregon Revised Statutes 166.370

http://www.leg.state.or.us/ors/home.htm

####

Share