It's been almost a year since the Virginia Tech massacre and it will be nine years next week since the Columbine shootings.Some Ohio lawmakers are pushing new plans to allow students to carry concealed weapons at public universities.
Some students are in favor of such a law, saying that's might be what it would take to stop the next campus gunman, NewsChannel5 reported.
"Would you rather just sit there cowering at a desk when someone executes you or would you rather have a chance to defend your life? That's what it really boils down to," said Ohio student Michael Flitcraft.Ohio is one of at least eight states currently considering allowing guns on campus, but supporters know they have an uphill battle.
Flitcraft is licensed to carry a concealed weapon on the streets but can't bring it to school.
"To me it makes no sense that I can defend myself legally over there but I am a felon if I step on the grass over here," said Flitcraft.
Utah, Colorado and Virginia already allow guns on campus, though it's up to school officials to set policy.
Still, most students aren't convinced and say that the idea scares them.
Since 1966, there have been about a dozen college campus shootings. As tragic as they were, experts contend campuses are still among the safest places for young adults.
"I don't think the answer to bullets flying is to send more bullets flying," said Ron Hold, of Weber State University.
The security chief at University of Cincinnati thinks the idea is a recipe for disaster.
"Someone is shooting. The officer responds to the scene. There is a person there with a gun in their hand. Now is that the bad guy or is that a citizen who is trying to help out?" said Gene Ferrara.
Flitcraft said he won't give up.
"I do see in the future eventually. It might take 10 or 15 years for it happen but people being able to defend their lives on campus," he said.
The proposal is gaining support. A national advocacy group, Students for Concealed Carry on Campus, signed up thousands of people in recent months, bringing its membership to 25,000.
