Democratic Leader Urges Legislature to Take Up Gov. Lee's Call for Gun Reform

Senate Democrats express willingness to work with GOP governor to pass gun reform proposals

In the wake of a school shooting in Nashville that resulted in the killing of three students and three staff, Gov. Bill Lee and Senate Democrats have spoken out about proposals to reform the state's gun laws.

Now, the leader of the Senate Democrats, Raumesh Akbari, is saying her caucus will work with Gov. Lee to pass gun reform bills, and she's calling on legislative leadership to begin taking up these proposals.

“In this moment, our families deserve action to stop future gun violence. The governor is right to make this a priority before session ends,” Sen. Akbari said.

Akbari expressed a willingness to move beyond partisan differences in order to accomplish the passage of legislation.

“We are ready to work with the governor and we urge our Republican colleagues in the legislature to move quickly to put gun reform legislation on his desk,” she added.

Measures supported by Democrats include banning high-capacity magazines, banning bump stock conversion kits, universal background checks for gun sales, and the return of firearm carry permits.

The Democrats are also calling for a so-called "Red Flag" law that would limit the sale of guns to individuals deemed to be a threat to themselves or others in certain circumstances.

Lee's proposals include enhanced legislation and funding to place an armed security guard at every Tennessee public school, boost physical school security at public and private schools, and provide additional mental health resources for Tennesseans. 

It's not yet clear if committees of the General Assembly will remain open to hear these proposals or if they will be deferred to summer study and next year's legislative session.

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