Weapons on Campus
Campus Carry
In accordance with O.C.G.A. § 16-11-127.1, individuals with a valid concealed carry permit may carry concealed handguns on Middle Georgia State University property, with the exception of all locations listed in the University's updated weapons policy. It is a misdemeanor for a lawful weapons carrier to possess a weapon in an area that is exempt, and it will be the responsibility of those lawful weapons carrier who choose to carry handguns on campus to know the law and understand where they can go on campus while carrying.
It is the responsibility of the lawful weapons carrier to check with the Office of the Registrar to inquire (in person or by phone) as to the permissibility of concealed handguns in their specific classes.
Any members of the MGA community or the community at large with questions about “campus carry” at Middle Georgia State University may email . Additionally, guidance from the University System of Georgia can be found here and here.
Faculty & Staff Information Session
Campus Carry Training Certification
Questions, comments, concerns
If you have questions, comments or concerns about “campus carry,” you may contact MGA Police via email to .
Tasers on Campus
In the 2016 legislative session, the Georgia General Assembly passed and Governor Nathan Deal signed House Bill 792, regarding possession of electroshock devices – usually referred to as tasers – on public university campuses.
The new law, which takes effect July 1, applies to all public postsecondary institutions in the state, including property leased by the institutions. It permits all individuals 18 years of age or older or those currently enrolled in classes on a public institution's campus to carry “electroshock weapons” – tasers, stun guns, and similar devices – for the purpose of self-defense.
What does this mean for MGA?
- Any individual aged 18 or older or currently enrolled on any MGA campus may carry a taser, stun gun, or similar device while on campus.
- Individuals are not required to obtain a permit or license to carry an electroshock device.
- Electroshock devices can only be used “in defense of self or others.”
- Electroshock devices may be carried in any building owned or leased by the institution, including residence halls.
- The law does not specify a carrying method; devices may be carried openly or concealed.
- Colleges and universities may not create policies to prohibit electroshock devices on campuses.
MGA Police have been working with the University System of Georgia to prepare for this legislation taking effect, and our officers have all been made aware of the new law and the possibility that students, staff, and faculty may be equipped with these devices.
We are, as always, dedicated to ensuring the safety of our campuses and the members of our MGA community.
If you have any questions about electroshock devices, including tasers and stun guns, please contact MGA Police by email at or by phone at 478.471.2414.