Republican lawmakers in Tennessee have passed a proposal that would allow some teachers to carry handguns in public schools. The bill, Senate Bill 1325, requires teachers or faculty members to have a handgun carry permit, written authorization from both the school’s principal and local law enforcement, and undergo 40 hours of handgun training. This measure was initiated after a deadly shooting at The Covenant School in Nashville, which claimed the lives of three children and three adults. The bill does not mandate teachers to be armed or use their weapons in an active-shooter situation and keeps the identities of armed staff confidential.
Proponents of the bill argue that arming teachers and faculty could provide a faster response to a shooting incident, especially in rural areas with limited law enforcement resources. The bill has now been approved by the Senate and is awaiting a House floor vote. Critics, however, have strongly opposed the bill, with protests erupting in the Senate galleries during the debate. Chants and screams from protesters demanded the rejection of the bill, citing concerns about the safety of students and the risks associated with arming educators. Democratic state Sen. London Lamar emphasized that teachers do not support the bill and labeled it as dangerous.
The passage of this bill comes in the wake of increased efforts by Tennessee Republicans to relax gun laws in the state. These initiatives include permitless carry for handguns and expanding the right to carry various types of firearms. Despite the backlash and protests against the bill allowing teachers to carry handguns, the Republican-controlled Senate passed the proposal, furthering the state’s broader push to enforce pro-gun legislation. The bill also coincides with a constitutional amendment that aims to expand the right to bear arms beyond defense, which would be up for a vote in 2026 if approved.
Efforts to bolster gun rights in Tennessee have been ongoing, with previous laws passed to protect gun and ammunition dealers, manufacturers, and sellers from lawsuits. Additionally, the state’s permitless carry law has already been expanded to include individuals aged 18 to 20. Other measures, such as allowing private schools with pre-kindergarten classes to have guns on campus, are also in the works, awaiting the governor’s signature. These legislative actions underline the state’s commitment to promoting gun rights and enhancing access to firearms in various settings, including schools.
The controversial bill allowing teachers to carry handguns in Tennessee public schools has sparked intense debate and division among lawmakers and the public. While proponents argue that arming teachers can enhance response capabilities during active shooter incidents, critics express concerns about the potential risks and dangers associated with introducing firearms into educational environments. The bill’s passage reflects a broader trend of pro-gun legislation in Tennessee, exemplified by recent efforts to expand gun rights and loosen restrictions on carrying firearms. Despite the opposition and protests, the bill represents a significant step towards reshaping gun policies in the state and affirming the rights of individuals to bear arms.
