Thread by @IsErinThere

HAPPENING NOW: The House Education Administration Committee is debating HB1202, which would allow faculty/staff of schools to carry a concealed handgun on school grounds.
@wrkn
#TNLeg23

Concerns for teacher's mental health if they had to fire a gun and potentially hurt/kill someone, as well as whether or not they would be required to keep it on their person at all times rather than in a purse/desk/safe
@wrkn
#TNLeg23

HB1202 is brought by Rep. Ryan Williams (R—Cookeville).
"We need to do the best that we can do for our kids," he says.
This bill has origins in Parkland, he says, and mirrors what actions were taken then.
Bill is only "permissive" meaning LEAs aren't required to do it.

Williams thanks those who testified out of session to make their voices heard, including a student.
On a roll call vote: Baum, Gillespie, Love, McKenzie, Parkinson and White vote no, but AYEs have it 12-6 with Haston Present Not Voting.
Crowd erupts following vote.

Multiple people shouting at Reps. I heard the word "shame" at least once.
Chairman Mark White calls for a 2-minute recess to allow the committee room to clear out
@wrkn #TNLeg23

During the recess, the sound has been cut off of the live feed on the Capitol website.
Lots of @MomsDemand shirts in the crowd filing out now.
@wrkn #TNLeg23

While this has cleared another House committee and is set for the House Calendar & Rules Cmte (meaning a full floor vote), the Senate companion bill had its action deferred until January by order of Judiciary Chairman Todd Gardenhire (R—Chattanooga) @wrkn #TNLeg23

No word yet on when HB1202 might make it to the House floor, though.
@wrkn #TNLeg23

And Chairman Mark White just recessed the rest of the committee until 1 p.m. @wrkn #TNLeg23