I am appalled at the rapid pace of right-to-carry gun legislation in Texas. Gun lovers may achieve the right to carry, but we must also have the absolute right to evacuate any space where we feel at risk due to the presence of guns. Treat it the same way as the right to evacuate a building that is on fire.
Proposed strategy
Every right-to-carry proposal must include a provision allowing students, workers, and business patrons to choose to leave any environment where guns are present without question or penalty.
- Students can leave any class without penalty if they feel at risk in the presence of armed persons.
- Workers can leave their workplaces with cause - example Walmart workers can immediately leave the store without penalty if an armed person enters.
- Restaurant patrons can leave in mid meal and settle the bill later.
Attach this as a rider to all right-to-carry bills. Call it "The Right to Carry- Right to Evacuate" rider.
This rider will force the business community to consider what is a reasonable response for employees/patrons who find themselves around people openly carrying guns. No one should be required to remain in the presence of gun toters if they feel they are at risk. It would also need to be incorporated into OSHA and other workplace safety laws.
Law or not, this is now my personal policy. If I see someone openly packing a gun, I'm exercising my right to leave.
Immediately.