Tennessee Republican lawmakers have progressed a proposal that would permit some teachers to carry handguns on public school premises, marking a significant expansion of gun access in the state. The proposal, which was met with emotional protests, cleared the Senate chamber with a 26-5 vote and is now set for a House vote. The bill would mandate secrecy regarding which school employees are armed, with the agreement of school administrators, police, and the school district required to authorize this provision.
The contentious debate follows a shooting at The Covenant School in Nashville last year where six people were killed. Despite various efforts to promote gun control measures, including proposals from both Democrats and the Republican governor, Tennessee’s lawmakers have consistently rejected such initiatives. The bill would require teachers interested in carrying handguns to go through background checks, obtain written authorization, and complete 40 hours of handgun training.
Critics, including parents of students from The Covenant School, expressed disappointment and concern over the potential risks associated with arming teachers. Tennessee Republicans have previously relaxed gun laws in the state, including allowing permitless carry for handguns in 2021. The current proposal would expand this law to include long guns. Furthermore, lawmakers are awaiting the governor’s decision on a bill that would allow private schools with pre-kindergarten classes to have guns on campus. Senate Republicans have also proposed amending the state constitution to broaden the right to bear arms.
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