A bill that will allow certain public school staff members to carry firearms is heading to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk.
On Tuesday, the House passed HB1202 while several gun safety advocates looked on from the gallery. While the spectators remained quiet after warnings from House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R-Crossville), they erupted after the bill passed, chanting phrases including “blood on your hands.” The gallery was cleared and protests continued outside the House chamber.
Local students and Covenant parents on watch as conceal carry bill for teachers nears a vote in the House
The Senate passed the bill earlier this month amid a similar scene.
The legislation will allow school staff who have completed certain requirements to carry concealed handguns on school grounds (though parents would not necessarily be able to know which staff members are armed). Requirements include annual training on school policing, a background check and certification from a psychologist or psychiatrist.
House Democrats opposed the bill and unsuccessfully attempted to introduce several amendments addressing liability, how guns in schools should be stored and which counties can opt in. Democrats pointed to potential problems that could arise as a result of the legislation.
Rep. Ryan Williams (R-Cookeville) discusses House Bill 1202, April 23, 2024
“How is law enforcement going to feel safe going into a school knowing there are guns?” said Rep. Jason Powell (D-Nashville). “It’s going to delay responses. It is going to put law enforcement in danger. How are we going to know who is the assailant and who is the teacher with a gun?”
In defense of the bill, Republicans noted that, in order for school staff to carry weapons, they would need permission from their director of schools, principal and law enforcement chief. House sponsor Rep. Ryan Williams (R-Cookeville) also pointed to the fact that a similar law passed in 2016 allows schools in distressed counties to have handgun policies.
