Bill to arm teachers in Tennessee passes in Senate

If passed, this bill would arm school staff members upon completing training, background checks and a psychological evaluation.
Dozens of people were told to leave the gallery in the Tennessee Senate after several outbursts over a bill to arm staff members with guns in schools.
Published: Apr. 9, 2024 at 2:46 PM CDT
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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - Update: The Tennessee Senate passed the bill that would arm teachers with concealed guns in schools.

It passed Tuesday on the Senate floor with 26 votes for and five votes against.

Earlier: The Tennessee Senate is discussing a bill on Tuesday that could arm teachers in schools with concealed guns.

During the hearing, there were dozens of moms in the gallery and standing outside the Senate with signs opposing the bill.

HB1202/SB1325 would not require but would allow people who work at schools to carry concealed guns on school property.

Bill to arm teachers in Tennessee up for discussion
Bill to arm teachers in Tennessee up for discussion(WSMV)

If passed, this bill would arm school staff members upon completing training, background checks and a psychological evaluation. Republicans say there’s misinformation being spread about the bill and that staff would only carry a concealed handgun if they want to go through the training.

Democrats suggest that would pose a liability. Before the session, Democratic senators took a moment to honor the moms and Covenant School moms who come to sessions and committee meetings to fight for their children’s safety.