VICTORY FOR GUN SAFETY: Following Advocacy by Arizona Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action, Governor Katie Hobbs Vetoes Legislation to Allow Guns on College Campuses 

Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action Volunteers Sent over 2300 Emails to Arizona Lawmakers and Governor Katie Hobbs Advocating Against HB 2667

PHOENIX — Today, the Arizona chapters of Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action, both part of Everytown for Gun Safety’s grassroots network, released the following statement applauding Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs for vetoing House Bill 2667  — a dangerous piece of legislation that would force public colleges and universities to allow hidden, loaded guns on campus. 

“We thank Governor Hobbs for her steadfast leadership and commitment to Arizona students. Her veto gives us some peace of mind so we can focus on our education without fear of further gun violence on campus,” said Teresa Neiberg, a volunteer with Students Demand Action in Arizona. “It’s disappointing that lawmakers were even considering such a measure instead of working on solutions that protect students and Arizona families from the threat of gun violence. We urge our leaders to come together and prioritize common-sense measures that ensure a safe learning environment for all.” 

“Since the beginning of the legislative session, Arizona Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action volunteers have been committed to engaging with leaders on policies proven to protect our students from gun violence,” said Angela Ferrell-Zabala, Executive Director of Moms Demand Action. “Our students, teachers and support staff shouldn’t have to live in constant fear. We should be able to debate ideas in the classroom free from the worry that a firearm could be pulled at any moment. I am proud of our volunteers for standing up against this measure and thank Governor Hobbs for her commitment to governing with gun sense.”

Guns are the number one cause of death for college-aged people in the U.S. and campuses across the country continue to grapple with multiple shootings this year alone. Just this weekend, in the latest painful reminder of gun violence among our youth, the Yuma Police Department reported a fatal shooting that left two dead and five injured, including teenagers. 

Since 2013, Everytown has identified at least 1,077 incidents of gunfire on school grounds across the country. The vast majority of states and colleges prohibit guns from being carried on campus either by law or choice. However, in recent years the gun lobby has pushed legislation to force guns on college campuses against the wishes of most students, staff, and campus law enforcement. In an average year in Arizona, 1,228 people die by guns and 919 people are wounded. Gun violence costs Arizona $15.9 billion each year, of which $253.2 million is paid by taxpayers. More information about gun violence in Arizona is available here. 

To speak to a local volunteer with Moms Demand Action or Students Demand Action, or a policy expert, please reach out to [email protected].