NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Protesters chanted “Blood on your hands” at Tennessee House Republicans on Tuesday after they passed a bill that would allow some teachers and staff to carry concealed handguns on public school grounds, and bar parents and other teachers from knowing who was armed.
The 68-28 vote in favor of the bill sent it to Republican Gov. Bill Lee for consideration. If he signs it into law, it would be the biggest expansion of gun access in the state since last year’s deadly shooting at a private elementary school in Nashville.
Members of the public who oppose the bill harangued Republican lawmakers after the vote, leading House Speaker Cameron Sexton to order the galleries cleared.
Four House Republicans and all Democrats opposed the bill, which the state Senate previously passed. The measure would bar disclosing which employees are carrying guns beyond school administrators and police, including to students’ parents and even other teachers. A principal, school district and law enforcement agency would have to agree to let staff carry guns.
Former Starbucks CEO Schultz says company needs to refocus on coffee as sales struggle
Tragedy as five migrants die crossing Channel trying to reach Britain
Children, three, manipulated into sending predators sexual pictures, report claims
How Queen Mary could look to Queen Silvia: King Carl Gustaf and his wife's 47
Brits are told to 'go home' as anti
My friend's sausage dog ripped off a chunk of my cheek
What is the Rwanda scheme? Your questions answered
Auditors can't locate former St. Louis circuit attorney to complete state audit
Kenya to invest 1.9 mln USD to boost EV adoption in 3 years