Protests Erupt as Tennessee House Passes Bill Allowing Teachers to Carry Concealed Weapons in Schools
A contentious bill that would allow certain teachers and staff members to carry concealed handguns on public school grounds has been passed by the Tennessee House of Representatives. The measure, which passed by a 68-28 vote, sparked protests and outrage from members of the public and Democratic lawmakers. If signed into law by Republican Governor Bill Lee, it would represent the most significant expansion of gun access in the state since last year’s deadly shooting at a private elementary school in Nashville.
The bill’s passage prompted heated debates and accusations, with protesters chanting “Blood on your hands” at Republican lawmakers. Democratic lawmakers expressed moral outrage, arguing that the bill would endanger students and undermine school safety. However, Republican supporters maintained that it would act as a deterrent to potential school shooters.
The measure would prohibit disclosing which employees are carrying guns beyond school administrators and police, even to parents and other teachers. A principal, school district, and law enforcement agency would have to approve staff carrying weapons. Notably, the bill’s passage comes despite coordinated campaigns urging significant gun control measures following the tragic shooting at The Covenant School last year.
Despite the controversy, it remains uncertain whether any school districts would take advantage of the new law if it is signed by the governor. Some districts, such as Metro Nashville Public Schools, have already expressed opposition to arming school employees.
The bill is part of a broader trend in Tennessee of loosening gun laws, including a 2021 permit-less carry law for handguns. However, lawmakers have also advanced some narrow gun limitations, such as involuntary commitment for certain defendants deemed incompetent for trial due to intellectual disability or mental illness, and removing gun rights for juveniles adjudicated delinquent for certain offenses until age 25.
