Fulton County school board members don’t want guns on school grounds and are stressing that point to parents and others who visit district campuses.
At Tuesday's board meeting, members discussed two gun bills passed by state lawmakers — House Bill 60 and House Bill 826 — which went into effect July 1.
“What was made clear is absolutely the board does not want anyone in any of our schools with a weapon unless you’re a law enforcement officer,” said Samantha Evans, a spokeswoman for Fulton’s school system.
“I think they publicly wanted to have a discussion so they were clear about what the legislation says, and so the public can clearly hear their mindset.”
Board members also said guns or weapons would not be allowed in school board meetings. They discussed putting up signs around school buildings stressing no guns are allowed on campuses.
In May, Georgia Attorney General Sam Olens confirmed House Bill 826 did not legalize so-called “campus carry,” despite assertions by some gun rights supporters that it did.
Olens noted in an online legal FAQ that campus carry is explicitly banned under an overriding piece of legislation. House Bill 60 has garnered international attention and expands where Georgians may legally carry firearms with some conditions.
About the Author
