Campus Carry in Iowa 

THE INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL ADVICE. FURTHER, READERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR VERIFYING ALL THE INFORMATION CONTAINED WITHIN THIS DOCUMENT FOR THEMSELVES AND SHOULD SPEAK WITH A COMPETENT ATTORNEY IN THEIR STATE. 

Are there differences between private and public colleges and universities? 

State universities in Iowa prohibit the possession and carry of firearms on campus property per IAC 681—13.14 (262). Private colleges in the state however may permit students the ability to carry a firearm. 

What can students do to appeal for their Second Amendment rights if they are on an unfriendly campus? 

Students have the opportunity to advocate for their right to carry a firearm by appealing to private school officials. Most higher education institutions allow students to write to officials in request for changes on campus. Students would be inclined to request that the private university change their policies to issue permissions to students willing to carry to protect themselves and others. Students may also petition to the Iowa state government in request that legislation be passed to remove restrictions placed on public universities that prevent students from carrying a firearm. 

What would the penalty be if a student is found with a weapon on campus grounds? 

Students may face disciplinary action by the college or university depending on their individual policies in regard to campus carry. They may also be trespassed and removed from campus property. 

For campuses who would allow campus carry but are prevented from doing so by their state law, what are some things the university can do to aid students? 

Public universities may engage with state government to request that state law prohibiting the carry of firearms on campus be removed.