‘Guns in Trunks’ Sponsors Fend Off Exemptions

A father and son shoot targets at an indoor range in Hendersonville. Photo credit Blake Farmer/WPLN

The state senate has sided with the Second Amendment over private property rights. So-called “guns in trunks” legislation passed Monday night by a wide margin.

The bill allows gun owners with a carry permit to store a weapon locked in their car, even if they’re somewhere that doesn’t allow firearms – like a school or business.

The state’s largest employers and universities objected to a more broadly written proposal last year, and state Senator Jack Johnson of Franklin was asked if they’ve come around since the bill is restricted to permit holders.

“Some are comfortable. Some are not. I want to be very clear.”

Democrats offered an amendment that was quickly rejected. It would have allowed the Department of Safety to consider exemptions for businesses that ask for one.

Senator Thelma Harper of Nashville made vague reference to shootings in Newtown, Connecticut, and suggested this is not the time to expand gun rights.

“I just think there’s something else we can do, other than deal with guns.”

Still the tally was somewhat bi-partisan. Two West Tennessee Democrats voted with Republicans to allow weapons to be stored in a locked car in a private parking lot.

The legislation does include an exemption for federal property where guns are off limits, such as Oak Ridge National Lab or nuclear reactor sites. The senate shot down a proposal allowing businesses to ask for special exemptions.

The legislation now goes to the House, where sponsor Jeremy Faison says he plans to pass the bill as it is.

“I – right now – wouldn’t be interested in taking any exceptions other than what a federal law would trump.”

The so-called “guns in trunks” legislation begins making it’s way through the state House Wednesday.