Tennessee House passes fire alarm bill after Covenant shooting
The new bill would require schools to have a plan and figure out why a fire alarm is going off.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - On Thursday, Tennessee House members passed a bill that could have saved lives at the Covenant School shooting. The new bill would require schools to have a plan and figure out why a fire alarm is going off.
Metro Nashville Police Department body camera video plays the sound of a fire alarm ringing through the halls of The Covenant School. It’s what students, teachers, and six victims heard the day lawmakers said an active shooter got inside and set it off. It’s a signal to leave, and evacuate, which is what lawmakers said 9-year-old William Kinney did.
“Little William was doing exactly what he was supposed to do,” said Rep. William Lamberth (R-Portland) during the House floor session on Thursday. “He led his class into the hallway and I’m confident the last thing he felt was pride that the children behind him would be safe because he was leading them there.”
Lawmakers discussed HB 1644, which would require schools to make a plan and find out why a fire alarm is going off, like in the case of an active shooter.
The problem some lawmakers have is the timing of the legislation.
“I’m glad we are doing all these little things,” said Rep. Bo Mitchell (D-Nashville). “But I’ll be glad when we get down to the hard work of doing things to stop these tragedies from happening in the first place, so we don’t have to do these little bills about fire alarms.”
“These are things left unsaid that should be left unsaid,” said Lamberth in response. “Especially amongst friends who have served together for a long time.”
“I know this bill will at least help some to save some lives,” Lamberth added. “So, I’m going to keep doing what I can do one step at a time. That’s all I got.”
The bill passed unanimously in the House. Afterward, Lamberth addressed the contention with Mitchell to reporters.
“Representative Mitchell is my friend,” Lamberth said. “We came to this floor 12 years ago. We have some heated debates on this floor. That’s what this floor is for.”
Lamberth added William Kinney’s mom, Erin Kinney, texted him after thanking members of the House and hopes the Senate will take it up.
The bill would also ensure schools work with local fire departments and officials to make the plan. They want substitutes and part-time staff to also be trained. Schools would be expected to have the plan ready by January 1, 2025.
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