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.
Murder investigation launched after two people died in house fire in north
New York Rangers captain Jacob Trouba may be the most interesting man in hockey, on and off the ice
History with Maple Leafs could help Bruins snap short playoff slump
Priest resigns from Michigan church after protests over his criticism of a gay author
Moment Israel wipes out top Hezbollah commander in precision airstrike on his car in Lebanon
Royal Bank of Scotland to close 18 more branches with the loss of 105 jobs
'Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare' review: Guy Ritchie amps up WWII heist
Georgia gymnastics coach Courtney Kupets Carter is fired after 7 seasons, no NCAA titles
Canadian police charge 2 former UN employees with conspiracy to sell military equipment in Libya
'The Full English will never die out!' Greasy spoon fans speak up for the Great British Fry
Get better sleep with these 5 tips from experts
Event to promote love of reading to be held in Kunming