₦airaland Forum

Republicans in the Tennessee House of Representatives passed a bill that would allow some teachers and staff to carry concealed handguns in public schools. Under the bill, teachers and staff who want to carry a handgun would need a handgun carry permit, as well as written authorization from the school principal and local law enforcement. They also need to pass a background check and undergo 40 hours of training. The bill prohibits disclosing to people other than school administrators and police officers, including parents and other teachers, which employees are carrying firearms. Democratic state Rep. Justin Jones believes Republicans continue to hold Tennessee "hostage" and hold the state at gunpoint to attract gun industry donors. After the vote, protesters chanted "You have blood on your hands."