Bill passed in US state allowing teachers and school staff to carry firearms

Lawmakers in Tennessee have stirred controversy by passing a bill that would allow teachers to carry concealed handguns at school. The bill, approved in a 68-28 vote in the Republican-dominated House, has sparked outrage among protesters in Nashville.

The heated debate over gun laws in Tennessee was fueled by last year’s tragic shooting at a Nashville school, where three children and three adult staffers lost their lives. Some Democrats in the House, including State Representative Justin Pearson, led protests inside the capitol, expressing their strong opposition to the bill.

Republicans and conservatives have long advocated for arming teachers in response to the numerous school shootings that have plagued the US. They argue that armed teachers can deter potential school shooters. However, opponents fear that having guns in schools could lead to tragic accidents.

Under the Tennessee bill, teachers interested in carrying concealed handguns would have to undergo at least 40 hours of training in school policing, with all costs covered by the individual. The identity of the armed teacher or staffer would be kept confidential, with school leaders and local law enforcement being informed.

With the bill passing in the Republican majority House, the debate over gun control and school safety continues to be a contentious issue in Tennessee and across the nation.