AUGUSTA (AP) — Higher education leaders say campuses would be less safe if lawmakers pass a Maine Republican’s campus carry bill.

The bill wouldn’t let public universities, community colleges and Maine Maritime Academy regulate possession of handguns on their campuses.

Maine allows concealed carry without a permit for those over 21 years old and has exceptions for active duty military members and veterans.

Republican Rep. Richard Cebra’s bill wouldn’t allow concealed handguns in locations like a residence hall.

Todd Tolhurst of Gun Owners of Maine said at a Monday hearing killers operate with impunity in gun-free zones.

The president of Maine’s community college system says it’s dangerous to have more guns drawn when police officers arrive.

The University of Maine’s police chief said it’s extremely rare an armed citizen could stop an active shooter.

A bill that passed the Maine Senate on Tuesday that will allow for adults over 21-years-old to carry a concealed handgun without a permit in Maine. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Eric Brakey, R-Auburn, is now on its way to the desk of Republican Gov. Paul LePage who has 10 days to consider whether to veto the bill, sign it or allow it to become law without his signature.