"Tennessee Senate Approves Bill Allowing Armed Teachers in Schools Despite Protests"
Tennessee lawmakers passed a bill allowing certain teachers to carry handguns in public schools, following a deadly shooting at a Nashville school last year. The bill requires teachers to meet specific requirements, including obtaining a handgun carry permit, written authorization from the school's principal and local law enforcement, and undergoing 40 hours of handgun training. Critics argue that the bill is dangerous and unwanted by teachers, while proponents believe it could provide a more immediate response to shooting situations, particularly in rural areas with limited law enforcement resources. This move is part of a larger push by Tennessee Republicans to loosen gun laws, including expanding permitless carry for handguns and allowing private schools with pre-kindergarten classes to have guns on campus.