Staff Reports
The Tennessee legislature recently sparked controversy by approving a bill that permits teachers to carry firearms in schools, a decision met with strong opposition and uproar. The bill's passage, just one year after the tragic Covenant school shooting, drew sharp criticism from Democrats and gun control activists, who voiced their disapproval through protests at the state Capitol.
Tensions reached a boiling point as Republican and Democratic state representatives engaged in heated debates, resulting in accusations hurled back and forth. Speaker Cameron Sexton was compelled to eject at least one disruptive protester amidst the chaos.
It’s chaos in the House as protesters have derailed session.
Representatives all over the floor, Democrats and Republicans going after each other for breaking rules, etc.@WKRN #TNLeg24 pic.twitter.com/3KiPI80q5z
— Chris O’Brien (@THEChrisOB) April 23, 2024
Democrats, facing an uphill battle in the predominantly conservative state, vehemently opposed the measure. Representative Bo Mitchell expressed frustration, questioning the response to school violence: "Our reaction is to throw more guns at it. What’s wrong with us?"
The drama didn’t end there. Representative Justin Jones staged a dramatic "die-in" protest, decrying the bill as "fascism."
Gun control activists also condemned the legislation, particularly its provision allowing teachers to carry guns without parental notification. Despite criticisms, the bill is slated for Governor Bill Lee's signature. It grants approval for teachers and staff to carry concealed handguns, but without disclosure to parents, students, or fellow teachers.
The Tennessee legislature's decision has ignited significant controversy, illustrating the deep divisions surrounding the issue.
