In the wake of the tragedy, Lee proposed a new state “red flag” law to allow courts to remove firearms from individuals considered a danger to themselves or others.
This falls in the category of those who demand that “something” be done, no matter if that something is effective or even constitutional.
Critics argue the statutes override due process and violate the Second Amendment, and the proposal did not advance in the Tennessee legislature.
It was then that Lee pledged to call lawmakers back into session to attempt to adopt the measure.
Undoubtedly the week will feature flash points in the gun control debate that both sides will highlight. It is also certain that anti-gun zealots will do much hand wringing over what will likely be a failed attempt to impose more restrictions on lawful gun owners.
With numbers solidly in favor of gun rights, several media outlets are already lamenting what they anticipate will be the failure of the session to champion gun control. On the other side, gun rights supporters are likely to dig in and resist any attempts to place more burdens on ownership.
In Memphis last week, the governor noted the controversy swirling around the special session. Lee told a press conference, “I’m under pressure to provide an environment for Tennesseans that is safe.”
Unlike the General Assembly which will reconvene in January, this special session has strict parameters imposed by the governor’s proclamation. By law Lee set the agenda and lawmakers are required to toe the line.
Among the topics which are on the table are the red flag proposal, mental health actions, school safety plans and blended sentencing for juvenile offenders. This is the legal process of applying both juvenile and adult sentences to youthful offenders.
Favorites of the anti-gun lobby such as bans on so-called “assault weapons” and bump stocks must wait until 2024.
The spotlight is on the red flag proposal, though lawmakers indicated it has little chance of clearing the legislature. Sen. Brent Taylor (R) of Memphis expressed his belief that the measure is “doomed.” He added, “There’s very little support for the governor’s red flag bill.”
Another Memphis legislator, Rep. John Gillespie (R), reported he submitted several proposals to be considered. One enhanced sentencing for a person guilty of a crime involving firearms while another prevented an individual indicted on a dangerous felony charge from buying more weapons.
Those, however, were denied by the special session’s protocols. One measure from Gillespie that slipped through would provide incentives to recruit more healthcare professionals.
Rep. Antonio Parkinson (D) of Memphis filed several bills, including one that would put responsibility on an adult gang member for crimes committed by a juvenile using a stolen gun that the adult had them steal.
As for Lee, it became apparent in recent weeks that he does not hold out much hope for his red flag proposal. It went unmentioned during multiple public appearances. Even in settings where it could be brought up before friendly audiences, Lee largely remained silent.
He essentially did not campaign for the very proposal that he brought the legislature back into session to consider.
John Geer, Vanderbilt University’s Poll co-director, observed that Lee is working within a very Second Amendment-friendly state. He is dealing with the “realities” that lawmakers have little to no enthusiasm to burden law-abiding citizens over the actions of violent criminals.
What is nearly certain is that neither side will be happy with the outcome. However, Tennessee is a bastion for the right to keep and bear arms. That means there is virtually no chance that measures supported by anti-gun legislators will clear the General Assembly.
