Tennessee Lawmakers Send Guns-In-Parks Bill To Governor Haslam

It’s now up to Gov. Bill Haslam to decide whether to allow guns in local parks after state lawmakers approved a final version of the measure Thursday.

The proposal, House Bill 995, is meant to open all Tennessee parks to firearms. But unlike previous versions, the final bill does not let gun owners carry “in the vicinity” of school events or in the state Capitol.

Many people have criticized Tennessee lawmakers for allowing guns in parks but not around themselves. But the measure’s sponsor, Sen. John Stevens (R-Huntingdon), says the policy makes sense.

“I don’t view it as hypocritical in any way, shape or form because the government, if we are going to provide security for you, you don’t need the ability to protect yourself.”

He contrasted security at the state Capitol with that with a park, where police could be far away in the event of an emergency.

Haslam has been a critic of guns in parks but hasn’t said how he’ll deal with the legislation.