On Monday, February 22, 2016, Austin American-Statesman published an editorial titled “Lawmakers Need to Revisit Campus Carry Opt-Out for State Colleges”. Despite the recent decision to allow all licensed concealed handgun holders to bear their weapons on all public universities, they argue that it may not be the best idea.

The article disputes that allowing guns in colleges are dangerous and irresponsible. They feel that public universities should have the same opportunity as private institutions to opt-out of the law. After witnessing Baylor, Texas Christian and many other private campuses decline the amendment, they feel it illustrates the true feelings of college communities. The article asserts that this new law also hurts bigger public universities, such as the University of Texas, with recruits, which leads to failure to keep up with other Ivy-League schools. With all the current events involving deadly shootings at a learning institution, they feel it only creates an easier path to destruction. Some professors have even resigned due to their belief of lack of security.

I feel that the authors grabs the attention of all perspective and current college students, graduates and their families. Despite their intended audience, I believe that they feel it is everyone’s duty to fight this law. They advised to give all power to university leaders since they will have a better understanding of their institution needs.

Do I agree with this editorial? Not fully. I don’t believe that everyone should be able to open carry on college campuses but there should be a better defense in the wake of an emergency. An increase in security and improved training would make everyone feel more comfortable. I understand that legislation wants to prevent and discourage mass shootings at universities in Texas but this may not be the best way.

On Thursday, February 11, 2016, Texas Tribune released an article titled “Texas Regulators Uncertain on Hunt Deal” by Jim Malewitz. The article states that the Texas Regulators are still skeptical of allowing the Ray L Hunt family to purchase and revise the states biggest electric utility company, Oncor for $18 billion. The opposition comes from Texas ratepayers that believes the new scheme will tremendously transfer wealth to the Hunt family and investors. Consequently, losing currency for organizations like the states teacher pension fund, hedge fund and banks. Although supporters are insisting that the deal is positive and will help the company out of bankruptcy, many skeptics question the sincerity of the Hunt’s plan. The arrangement converts Oncor’s corporate structure into a Real Estate Investment Trust, that many believe could leave it financially unstable. With a deadline quickly approaching, regulators must come up with an idea much sooner than later. I believe this article is interesting and worth reading because the outcome could affect so many people and organizations. I don’t feel that we should lose funding for teacher pensions to help a company that is willing to pay $18 billion for the purchase.