Teachers in Tennessee with prior law enforcement experience would be allowed to carry a gun at school under a proposal that's advancing in the state legislature.
The measure passed the House Education Committee Tuesday. The companion bill was approved in the Senate Judiciary Committee.
The proposal allows schools to hire retired law enforcement officers after they meet certain requirements, such as completing a 40-hour school security course. Police officers are typically required to have about 400 hours of training.
Supporters say it provides an option for financially strapped schools, particularly those in rural areas.