Guns

who’s not a felon can have a gun anywhere except schools, courtrooms and other “sensitive” locations — has been a residual topic in the legislature for years.

Faison’s current effort, HB1176, has been described as a slightly more stringent version of constitutional carry, but still has managed to advance through committees despite opposition from both sides of the political aisle, the state’s top law enforcement agencies and Gov. Bill Haslam, and represents a continued effort from rural lawmakers to reduce penalties on gun possession.

The bill is scheduled to face two more big committee tests this week in House Finance and Senate Judiciary.

The argument opponents make is also simple: “Are we providing a solution in search of a problem,” asked Maggi Duncan, executive director of the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police, who’s testified against the legislation multiple times. “We don’t want to create a loophole that gang members and criminals can utilize.”

Faison’s effort will continue, and likely garner significant support from conservative groups and lawmakers. “I’m just trying to protect people who are lawfully trying to have a gun,” he said.

Jake Lowary covers Tennessee politics and state government for the USA Today Network.