1.0 Policy Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to provide clear direction regarding the prohibition of Weapons and Firearms at all University locations and events.
2.0 To Whom the Policy Applies
This policy applies broadly to all individuals on University Property, including but not limited to employees, students, contractors, volunteers, guests, and visitors, regardless of whether they possess a valid permit to carry a Firearm or other Weapon.
3.0 Policy Statement
The possession, use, or storage of Weapons or Firearms is strictly prohibited on all University Property and at University-sponsored events, except as authorized under this policy.
Any Brown community member who is subject to or observes Violent Behavior, a threat of Violent Behavior, a Weapon/Firearm, or any situation that appears to be potentially dangerous must immediately report it to the Department of Public Safety (DPS).
- Emergency Line: 401-863-4111
- Non-Emergency Line: 401-863-3322
The reporting person is not expected to confront the person(s) who is the subject of the report, question, or complaint. All Brown Community members must prioritize their safety and the safety of the community.
3.1 Exceptions
This policy does not apply to the possession and/or use of disabling chemical sprays when used for self-defense. This policy’s prohibition on Weapons and Firearms does not apply to the following:
- University Law Enforcement: Sworn members of the Brown University DPS, or any other active sworn members of a Rhode Island campus police department.
- Law Enforcement: Active or retired federal, state, or local law enforcement officers authorized to carry Firearms.
- Special Authorization: Credentialed armed private dignitary security personnel allowed on campus at the discretion of the Vice President for Public Safety and Emergency Management.
4.0 Definitions
For the purpose of this policy, the terms below have the following definitions:
- Firearm:
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Includes any machine gun, pistol, rifle, air rifle, air pistol, “blank gun,” “BB gun,” or other instrument from which steel or metal projectiles are propelled, or that may readily be converted to expel a projectile, except crossbows, recurve, compound, or longbows, and except instruments propelling projectiles that are designed or normally used for a primary purpose other than as a Weapon. The frame or receiver of the Weapon shall be construed as a Firearm.
- University Property:
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Any property owned, leased, or controlled by the University, including buildings, grounds, parking areas, and vehicles.
- Weapon:
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Includes, but is not limited to, visible and concealed Weapons, including those for which the owner holds the necessary permits. Weapons can include Firearms, knives or swords with a blade longer than three inches, bows, crossbows and arrows, explosive or chemical compound/mixture/device, or any other objects that could be used to harass, intimidate, or injure another individual(s).
- Violent Behavior:
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Includes any physical assault, with or without Weapons; behavior that a reasonable person would interpret as being potentially violent (e.g., throwing things, pounding one’s fist on a desk or door, or destroying property), or specific threats to inflict physical harm (e.g., a threat to shoot a specific person).
5.0 Responsibilities
All individuals to whom this policy applies are responsible for becoming familiar with and following this policy. University supervisors and employees with student oversight duties are responsible for promoting the understanding of this policy and for taking appropriate steps to help ensure and enforce compliance with it. In addition to responsibilities already defined in the policy, the following offices will:
Campus Life and University Human Resources: Assist in determining disciplinary measures for violations.
Department of Public Safety and Emergency Management: Ensure enforcement of this policy and provides guidance on reporting and response procedures.
6.0 Consequences for Violating this Policy
Employees who fail to comply with this and related policies are subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension without pay, or termination of employment or association with the University, in accordance with applicable (e.g., staff, faculty, student) disciplinary procedures.
Students who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary actions, up to and including expulsion from the University. Guests of the University will be advised of the policy and required to comply or leave the University.
7.0 Related Information
Brown University is a community in which individuals are encouraged to share concerns with University leadership. Additionally, Brown’s Anonymous Reporting Hotline allows anonymous and confidential reporting on matters of concern online or by phone (877-318-9184).
The following information complements and supplements this document. The information is intended to help explain this policy and is not an all-inclusive list of policies, procedures, laws and requirements.
7.1 Related Policies:
7.2 Related Procedures
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7.3 Related Forms
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7.4 Frequently Asked Questions
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7.5 Other Related Information
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Policy Owner and Contact(s)
Policy Owner: Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration
Policy Approved by: President
Contact Information:
Policy History
Policy Issue Date:
Policy Effective Date:
Policy Update/Review Summary:
Updated purpose, policy statement, and added definitions.
Previous policy version(s) superseded by this policy:
- Weapons, Explosives and Firearms, March 12, 2019