NAU president thanks governor for vetoing gun legislation

Northern Arizona University President John Haeger issued the following statement after Gov. Jan Brewer vetoed legislation that would have allowed firearms on university rights-of-way.

“I want to thank Gov. Brewer for her bold action in vetoing SB 1467, which would have allowed the open carry of firearms on university campuses.

“The governor has heard the voices of those who live and work at the university, including faculty, staff, students and the Northern Arizona University Police Department, and has taken action to protect their well-being.

“Openly carrying weapons on a campus under the guise of protecting the Second Amendment should rightfully be balanced with protecting the safety of our communities, and we are grateful that Gov. Brewer agreed with the ambiguity the universities identified in the proposed legislation. We appreciate the ability of educational institutions throughout Arizona to remain gun-free zones and will work diligently to maintain a safe environment on our university campus.”