A bill that would allow teachers and administrators to carry guns in schools in Tennessee has passed a key Senate Judiciary Committee. The bill requires teachers to have a handgun carry permit, written authorization from the chief of local law enforcement, and complete 40 hours of basic training in school policing. Supporters argue that arming teachers provides an extra layer of protection for students, while opponents, including Senate Minority Leader Raumesh Akbari, express concerns about the safety of students and teachers in such a scenario.
The bill, which was previously put on hold after a school shooting, has sparked a debate among lawmakers about how to best keep schools safe from gun violence. Some lawmakers have advocated for fortifying schools, while others believe that stricter gun laws may not prevent individuals from obtaining weapons illegally. The bill has received support from more conservative Republicans, while some moderate Republicans and Democrats have opposed it in committee votes.
The legislation will now move forward to be considered by the full Senate and House, where it is likely to pass due to previous support, before potentially becoming law with the governor’s approval. While the bill’s fate in Tennessee unfolds, the issue remains a contentious one, with legislators on both sides of the aisle expressing the need for regulations to ensure the safety of students and teachers.
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