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Judge to hear arguments in UT professors' campus carry lawsuit

After three University of Texas professors filed a lawsuit against the state of Texas with hopes that they will have the option of declaring their classrooms gun-free zones when school starts later in the month, a federal judge will hear arguments Thursday.

UPDATE: The judge did not issue a ruling Thursday. Go here for the latest.

AUSTIN -- After three University of Texas professors filed a lawsuit against the state of Texas with hopes that they will have the option of declaring their classrooms gun-free zones when school starts later in the month, a federal judge will hear arguments Thursday.

The judge is holding a temporary injunction hearing, because despite the fact that school hasn't started yet, campus carry did on Aug. 1. School starts Aug. 24.

Under campus carry, students, faculty and staff who have concealed carry licenses can take their weapons into most campus buildings. Handguns are still off-limits in certain areas including child care facilities, bars, games and the UT Tower observation deck during tours.

The new law does not allow open carry on campus.

The day campus carry went into effect, it also marked the 50th anniversary of the UT Tower shooting, the first mass shooting at a school.

Some professors said they plan to curtail their curriculum by toning down tough discussions because some students could get emotional. Others said they feel it's a risk, but but won't change their behaviors or teaching methods.

"So even though I'm opposed to it, and I am definitely a little bit afraid, I also feel like I just cannot be intimidated," said UT pharmacy professor Andrea Gore.

She also said she does plan to ban guns from her office, which is allowed if they are the only occupant. However, under the law, professors are not allowed to post signs.

Attorney General Ken Paxton said the lawsuit is frivolous and he's confident it will be defeated. He believes the legislature passed a constitutionally-sound law.

The hearing for that lawsuit will start at 2 p.m.

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