AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - Texas lawmakers are holding their first hearing on proposals to allow concealed guns on college campuses.

Rep. Warren Chisum (R-Pampa) told Pronews 7 that he supports the bill that would allow guns on college campuses.

Supporters say allowing guns on campus is a critical self-defense measure to help prevent crime and avoid mass shootings such as the Virginia Tech massacre in 2007. They also say it's a gun-rights issue.

Opponents, including some university administrators, say guns will only make campuses more dangerous.

The Texas House Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety has scheduled a hearing for Wednesday to listen to public testimony and possibly vote on a bill.