Republicans in the state House appear to be bowing to pressure from Governor Bill Haslam and blocking an NRA-backed bill that allows people to store weapons in their vehicle while at work. GOP caucus members met behind closed doors prior to Monday night’s floor session.
The NRA has been pushing to allow workers to keep guns in their parked cars.
House members are not speaking openly, but one unnamed lawmaker tells the Associated Press that a poll taken among members was heavily against voting on the so-called “guns in trunks” bill.
Rep. Joe Carr from Rutherford County would not confirm.
“We’re trying to resolve some things within the caucus and we need to do it in a private way, and I certainly respect and appreciate that.”
A representative from the National Rifle Association waited outside the closed meeting. Lobbyist Darren LaSorte argues that the state’s business should be done in the open.
“That’s not how this process is supposed to work. It’s supposed to happen in daylight so the public can see where their elected officials sit on the issue.”
LaSorte says he feels like Republicans are trying to dodge a thorny issue.
“They have two large constituencies, big business and gun owners, on opposite sides. And it’s much easier to run from that than to do it. But they weren’t elected to run from things. They were elected to do things.”
LaSorte says he’s still hopeful that the legislation could find a way to the floor for a vote. And the sponsor – who is a Democrat – says he’s hopeful too.
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