Local state lawmakers vote for bill allowing armed teachers

Slater Teague
·2 min read
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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WJHL) — All Tennessee state representatives in News Channel 11’s viewing area voted for a bill that would allow teachers to conceal carry.

The bill passed the Republican-controlled House in a 68-28 vote Tuesday with two members voting “present not voting.” The Senate passed it earlier this month.

Legislature OKs permitting armed teachers in Tennessee schools

Area lawmakers were among those who voted in favor of the bill, including:

  • Rep. Rebecca Alexander (R-Jonesborough)

  • Rep. John Crawford (Bristol/Kingsport)

  • Rep. David Hawk (R-Greeneville)

  • Rep. Gary Hicks (R-Rogersville)

  • Rep. Tim Hicks (R-Gray)

  • Rep. Timothy Hill (R-Blountville)

  • Rep. John Holsclaw (R-Elizabethton)

  • Rep. Bud Hulsey (R-Kingsport)

News Channel 11 reached out to each lawmaker. On Wednesday morning, Rep. Bud Hulsey provided the following statement:

“It seems reasonable to me. It is completely permissive. If the superintendent doesn’t want it, or the principal doesn’t want it, the school system does not participate. If they choose to participate, the training is akin to how police are trained, ie, 40 hours which includes keeping your weapon secure, active shooter training, etc. Then the required psychological that police take, then the qualification with your firearm. If you do not pass all that, you cannot participate. There are 500 schools that do not have SRO officers. This is an option for them. Gun restriction laws do not work. Lawless people do not obey [the] law. That’s why you have SRO officers in schools now.”

Tennessee State Rep. Bud Hulsey (R-Kingsport)

The legislation would allow teachers to carry concealed handguns on school campuses if they meet certain requirements. In order for a teacher to carry, there must be a memorandum of understanding between local police, the school district, and the principal.

Teachers and staff members would also have to submit to a background check, pass a psychological examination, receive 40 hours of firearms training, and submit their fingerprints.

The bill now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk.

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