NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - We have a better idea of how the new bill that would arm teachers would work.
Most notably, SB 1325/HB 1202 would hold the staff member liable for their actions if the firearm is used.
Additionally, the sponsor of this bill told us only certain people would know which educators are armed, which doesn’t include parents.
Senator Paul Bailey stands behind this decision.
Under the bill, only the district’s superintendent, principal, and police chief would be privy to such information.
Senator Bailey said the list is intentionally kept short so intruders don’t debunk the plan.
Ahead of the staff member being armed on campus, they would have to undergo multiple procedures such as a background check, psychological evaluation, and 40 hours of training.
Also, the weapon must be concealed or properly stored. Then the decision would rest with school officials and law enforcement on whether to allow them to carry.
“I do think that we will lose some of our best teachers because of this,” said Linda Johnson, a former educator.
Furthermore, part-time employees, such as substitute teachers, are not eligible to participate, according to the bill’s language.
Despite several concerns, Senator Bailey believes this is the best path forward.
“If the first person that you encounter is the authorized faculty or staff member that is able to carry, then it also takes away that person’s ability to maybe want to go into that school,” explained Senator Paul Bailey (R – Sparta)
Next week, the Tennessee House plans on discussing their version of the bill. If passed, then it will head to Governor Bill Lee’s desk.
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