Guns are a controversial topic nationwide — whether or not people should have concealed carry or open carry or even if they should carry at all. No matter one’s side on the issue, guns are not going away.

As of July 2017, concealed carrying of guns is allowed on the Allen Community College campus. Although there are many restrictions, those who are legally allowed to carry now can. As can be expected, there are students who agree with the new policy, and students who don’t.

Jose Trejo, a freshman at Allen Community College, is pro-gun.

“I think they are fine, as long as it is concealed carry,” said Trejo.

Even though there have been meetings regarding the issue and new policies implemented, some students are still not confident with guns being allowed on campus. Francisco Delgado, a sophomore at the college, thinks guns should not be allowed.

“It should be prohibited to carry; you don’t know how people can handle their own anger,” said Delgado.

However, Jon Marshall is very confident in his Allen staff and faculty and the law.

According to Marshall, Allen’s vice president for academic affairs, this has been a widely highly discussed throughout the faculty and student population leading up to the July 2017 enactment of the law allowing concealed carry in public places.

“There have been professional development sessions,” said Marshall, “We are confident that the law will be followed.”

“As long as it is within the law, others won’t even know,” Marshall said. “We are not the first school to come across this issue. Three other schools have gone through this and have not had any problems.”

According to Allen’s policy, carry is required to be concealed rather than open. If a law enforcement officer approaches and asks a student if they are practicing their right to concealed carry, they do not have to reply.