Southwestern University believes it is important to establish a clear policy that specifically addresses weapons in the workplace and that is in accordance with section 46.03, Penal Code of Texas, and section 411.2032, Government Code of Texas.  

As used in this No Weapons Policy, “premises” means only a building or portion of a building, and does not include a public or private driveway, street, sidewalk or walkway, parking lot, parking garage, or other parking area.  

As used in this No Weapons Policy, “prohibited weapons” includes any form of weapon or explosive restricted under local, state, or federal law.  This includes all firearms, illegal knives, BB and pellet guns, martial arts weapons, hunting bows and arrows, fireworks, ammunition, and any other device that may be used as a firearm or other weapons covered by the law.                                      

Southwestern University prohibits all persons who enter Southwestern University  premises from carrying a handgun, firearm, or other prohibited weapon of any kind, regardless of whether the person is licensed to carry a weapon or not.  This policy also prohibits possession or carrying of a prohibited weapon of any kind on any grounds or building at any University-sponsored functions. 

This policy applies to all Southwestern University faculty, staff, students, contract and temporary employees, visitors, customers, and contractors, regardless of whether or not they are licensed to carry a concealed weapon.  The only exceptions to this policy are campus police officers and state or federal peace officers who are allowed to carry weapons under authority of their status as a peace officer.

Failure to abide by all the terms and conditions of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Further, carrying a weapon onto Southwestern University premises in violation of this policy will be considered an act of criminal trespass and will be grounds for immediate removal from Southwestern University premises, and may result in prosecution. 

Texas law states that it is a third degree felony, punishable by a fine of up to $10,000 and imprisonment from 2-10 years, if a person is found in violation of Southwestern University’s No Weapons Policy.  Southwestern University will strictly enforce both the law and the University’s No Weapons Policy. 

If an employee is aware of anyone violating this policy, he/she should report it to the Human Resources department or to Campus Police immediately.