NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE — A bill that would allow school staff to carry concealed handguns on school grounds is being considered by the Tennessee legislature.
Senate Bill 1325, introduced by Senator Paul Bailey (R – Sparta), would require school staff to have a valid handgun carry permit and would allow them to conceal their guns on school property. The bill also states that school staff would have to undergo 40 hours of training in school policing, among other requirements.
The bill has been met with mixed reactions, with some people supporting the idea of arming teachers to protect students from incidents such as mass shootings, and others opposing it.
Those who support the bill argue that it would allow school staff to defend themselves and their students in the event of a school shooting. They also argue that the bill would deter potential shooters from targeting schools.
Those who oppose the bill argue that it could lead to more gun violence in schools. They also argue that the bill would make it difficult for teachers to focus on teaching.
The bill is still in its early stages and it is unclear whether it will be passed by the legislature. However, the bill has sparked a debate about guns in schools and the role of guns in education.
