CHARLESTON, W. Va. – The West Virginia bill that would legalize conceal carry of firearms on grounds of public colleges and universities is headed to the governor’s desk.

Every Republican member of the Mountain State’s House of Delegates was listed as a sponsor of the bill.

Supporters have argued that in light of a rash of mass shootings on college campuses, students and faculty should have a right to protect themselves. The bill’s detractors have cited safety issues and a belief that colleges should control their own regulations.

The bill strictly prohibits openly carrying a firearm on college campuses.

Governor Jim Justice, a Republican, will likely sign the bill into law.