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The Tennessee Conservative [ By Olivia Lupia] –
With the start of a new school year comes a new law requiring Tennessee public and public charter schools to implement firearm safety instruction to all K-12 students, though some officials are frustrated children cannot be opted out of the program.
Passed during the 2025 legislative session, HB2882/SB2923 expanded the SAVE Act, which prescribes mandates for emergency training for severe weather, intruders, and other emergencies, to add gun safety trainings.
Per bill sponsor Chris Todd (R-Madison-District 73), the bill is intended to ensure children know what to do if they see a firearm in school.
The politically neutral curriculum, coordinated through the TN Fish and Wildlife Commission, will cover topics like firearm storage, school safety, and protocol for encountering firearms.
Students will take a grade and age-appropriate yearly course on the subject and will gain knowledge on proper gun storage, what to do if they find a firearm, and the importance of immediately telling an adult. The lessons will not involve live firearms or ammunition.
Some school websites have already added a page explaining the new policy and including links offering additional information and resources the school will use to teach the safety courses.
While the bill did pick up bipartisan support, some Democrats and school officials expressed displeasure that the legislation’s language does not provide an option for parents to opt their children out of the course. One Democrat lawmaker who stood against the legislation said the training could “retraumatize” children who have already been “permanently traumatized” by gun violence.
However other Democrats supported the measure, stating they supported teaching safety and even expressing a desire for parents to be able to attend the trainings.
Senate bill sponsor Paul Bailey (R-Bristol-District 4) also emphasized that this training should not be optional since other safety trainings are mandatory.
The bill was signed by the Governor in April after clearing the Senate 24-3 and passing the House 79-12, with Republican Patsy Hazelwood voting against.
About the Author: Olivia Lupia is a political refugee from Colorado who now calls Tennessee home. A proud follower of Christ, she views all political happenings through a Biblical lens and aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to educate and equip others. Olivia is an outspoken conservative who has run for local office, managed campaigns, and been highly involved with state & local GOPs, state legislatures, and other grassroots organizations and movements. Olivia can be reached at olivia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.
One Response
Good. As soon as a boy shows interest in guns smart folks take them out to shoot loud, kicking guns. They then understand the power of guns and respect it.