New gun safety law sees mixed reactions as implementation begins in schools

MILAN, Tenn. — As students across Tennessee settle into the school year, a new requirement is also making its way into classrooms.

One state law mandates public schools teach gun safety, but opponents argue it does not go far enough to address the root of the problem.

“Let’s talk about doing something real to deter gun violence. Let’s talk about universal background checks and let’s talk about red flag laws to remove guns from the hands of dangerous people,” said Rep. Gloria Johnson, D-TN.

The Tennessee Department of Education, Department of Safety and Homeland security and Wildlife Resources Agency have released instructional materials that can be used in the classroom.

Here locally, Milan Elementary School has already implemented the training, and administrators say they have not had any negative feedback.

“The video itself, it mainly talked about the parts of a gun, and then, it talking about what to do if you find a gun, and we made sure the children knew those four rules of stop, don’t touch, go tell an adult,” said Milan Elementary Principal Tammy Rushing.

Seeking to not add any extra stress on their educators, Milan Elementary School administrators implemented the training themselves.

“If we could protect even one child from an accidental firing of a firearm. Then we’re doing our job. So, early education is key,” said Kate Smith, coordinator of school health with Milan Elementary.

School leaders say the instruction is age-appropriate, but opponents question if this new is normalizing guns rather than promoting safety.

We spoke to Tennessee Republican Senator Joey Hensley who shared his support for the law designed to teach students about firearm safety.

As of the 2025-26 school year, gun safety training is required at all public schools in the state of Tennessee. If parents or community members have concerns, they are encouraged to reach out to their school district.

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