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.
Analysts: US missile deployment expected to assist Philippines’ defense — Radio Free Asia
Sierra Leonean president's China visit to enhance cooperation, friendship
Xi greets Sharif on election as Pakistani PM
Continued evolution of law improves governing capacity
Phish fans are famously dedicated. What happens when they enter the Sphere?
Top court: Trump will stay on ballot in Colorado
World Bank, ADB project China GDP growth of 5.2% in 2023
State secrets law revised to handle online leaks
Abbey Clancy screams with embarrassment as she's teased over her music career with throwback song
Wang: China addresses hotspot issues through the Chinese way