Lawmakers put brakes on proposal that could reduce the amount of gun-free zones in Tennessee

Childcare centers, jails, hospitals and libraries are all gun-free zones in Tennessee. But a proposed law could make it harder to establish these spaces. There’s pushback from state public safety officials and even some lawmakers.

The Tennessee Department of Safety and gun control advocates both agree the bill would essentially outlaw state, local or private businesses from prohibiting guns on their premises. Linda McFadyen-Ketchum is the Tennessee chapter leader for Moms Demand Action.

Among the many requirements of the new law, a business would have to “provide security, including metal detectors and on duty law enforcement for their property, and require they provide free storage at the entrance for people to lock up their guns,” McFadyen-Ketchum says.

It also decreases penalties for gun carriers who enter gun-free zones, replacing a misdemeanor charge with criminal trespassing and reducing the fine to $50.

The bill’s sponsor, Republican Rep. Jerry Sexton, says he wants to protect lawful gun owners.

“I’m just trying to remove the criminal aspect of if you accidentally walk into a gun-free zone and you’re asked to leave, then you leave,” Sexton says. “It’s no harm, no foul.”

But some Republicans, like Rep. Andrew Farmer, R-Sevierville, questioned if the legislation is even needed.

“I don’t know that people are being arrested for accidentally carrying a firearm onto a premise that’s been posted,” Farmer said.

“I think you’re probably right,” Sexton answered.

The bill was postponed. Sexton plans to make changes before bringing it back to the committee.