A lawmaker who was recently expelled from the Tennessee House of Representatives for participating in a gun control protest on the chamber floor has been reappointed to his position by the Nashville Metropolitan Council. Representative Justin Jones was among two other Democrats who were forced out of the Republican-controlled legislature following a demonstration calling for gun reform in the wake of the Nashville Christian school mass shooting that killed six people.
“The first thing I do when I walk into this building as a representative is to continue that call for commonsense gun legislation,” said Jones.
Jones, who is now a new member, expressed his intention to file 15 bills that would focus on gun reform as soon as he returns to work. According to Jones, these bills are necessary because “that’s what these young people are begging us to do.”
After being sworn in again on Monday, Jones said he would continue to call for gun reform despite the backlash he and other Democrats faced. Although Jones was reappointed to the House of Representatives, he holds the seat in the interim, and a new election will be held to fill the position permanently.
The Tennessee House Republicans released a statement on Monday, saying, “Tennessee’s constitution provides a pathway back from expulsion. Should any expelled member be reappointed, we will welcome them. Like everyone else, they are expected to follow the rules of the House as well as state law.”
Despite the opposition he faced, Jones remained resolute in his fight for gun reform. He believes that it is necessary to address the issue in light of the increasing number of mass shootings that have occurred in the United States in recent years.
Jones’ commitment to gun reform legislation has won him support from various advocacy groups and young people who are also calling for change. His determination to push for change in the face of opposition is a testament to his dedication to his constituents and his unwavering commitment to the cause.
