II. C. 10. Weapons
It is the intent of this policy: (1) to create a safe educational environment; (2) to prohibit the carrying of weapons within school safety zones as prohibited by law; (3) to create an awareness of this policy and related penalties; (4) to establish definitions; and (5) to establish procedures for disposition of violations.
Definitions"School safety zone" means in, on, or within 1,000 feet of the Technical College campus or of any public gathering by the Technical College.
"Weapon" includes any gun, any knife having a blade of three or more inches, any bludgeon-type weapon, any nun chahka, any throwing star, any stun gun or laser. This definition shall exclude any of these instruments used for classroom work authorized by an instructor. For a full list of prohibited weapons, see O.C.G.A. §16-11-127.1(a)(2))
"Public gathering" means and includes, but is not limited to, any function or event of or at any Technical College, its campus, satellites, buildings, vehicles or involving its employees or students. Such buildings include any public-owned, -leased or -operated building which houses any governmental or educational function on or off campus.
It is unlawful for any person to carry to or to possess or have such person's control while within a school safety zone or at a Technical College building, function, or property or on a bus or other transportation furnished by any Technical College any weapon or unlawful explosive compound (O.C.G.A. §16-11-127.1).
1. The provisions of this prohibition shall not apply to those individuals who are specifically exempted by law. O.C.G.A. §16-11-127.1(c) and (d).
Unless otherwise allowed by law, it is unlawful for an individual to bring to, possess, or have under such person's control, any explosive compound, firearm, or knife designed for the purpose of offense or defense while at a public gathering. (O.C.G.A. §16-11-127).
Each Technical College shall post signage notifying those who enter its property that weapons are prohibited.
The Technical College is responsible for ensuring that this policy is implemented and to develop procedures to inform employees and students on a routine basis of the following:
1. The implications of State law prohibiting weapons on campus or at public gatherings;
2. Possible penalties to be imposed upon employees or students who violate this weapons policy; and
3. Reporting procedures to notify appropriate law enforcement agencies of potential violations.
References
Adopted:
May 6, 1993
Revised: February 8, 1996; August 16, 2001; August
03, 2006
Code: 05-04-12
Approved