SALT LAKE CITY -- Utah's public colleges and universities are hoping to reach a compromise with lawmakers that would allow for a partial ban on concealed weapons.

University of Utah President Michael Young and Senate President John Valentine, R-Orem, have formed a group to consider crafting a bill that could prohibit guns from residence halls, sporting events and other common areas.

The Utah Supreme Court in September struck down a ban on guns at the school, saying campuses cannot adopt a policy that conflicts with state law, which allows firearms if someone has a permit.

"Now that the debate on who has control is over, we should have a discussion on if we should create a nuanced policy for universities," Sen. Greg Bell, R-Fruit Heights, said at a meeting Tuesday.

The University of Utah would like to ban guns in dorms, classrooms, faculty offices, stadiums, arenas and campus hospitals, said Kim Wirthlin, vice president for government relations.

But some lawmakers aren't certain such a ban would ensure a safe environment.

"If I send my daughter to the 'U' and you take away her right to defend herself, what guarantee of safety can you give mefi" asked Rep. Carl Wimmer, R-Herriman, a West Valley City police officer.

Sen. Mark Madsen, R-Lehi, agreed.

"If you take away people's right to protect themselves, then you have to assume the liability of protection," he said.

The university's gun ban dated back to the 1970s, although no violator had ever been expelled.

Valentine said gun-rights supporters in the Legislature understand the need for some restrictions.

"Even the Second Amendment advocates are concerned with the issues in dorms and other communal areas, including safe storage of weapons," he said.

This story appeared in The Daily Herald on page A1.