Governor Bill Lee of Tennessee signed an executive order aimed at strengthening background checks for gun purchases and called for the passage of a red flag law following a mass shooting in Nashville. The Republican governor’s executive order mandates a 72-hour reporting period for new criminal activity, requires courts to provide accurate and timely information to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and calls for an examination of the current firearms purchasing process.
The announcement comes amidst political unrest in the state Legislature, where two Democrats were removed for leading a gun reform protest inside the statehouse. The Nashville Metropolitan Council, which has had a contentious relationship with Republicans in the Legislature, recently reappointed one of the lawmakers, with the second member expected to be reinstated soon.
“When there is a clear need for action, I think that we have an obligation to remind people that we should set aside politics and pride and accomplish something that the people of Tennessee want to get accomplished,” Lee told reporters.
Lee expressed interest in passing an order-of-protection law, which would enable law enforcement officials to seek a court order to confiscate firearms from individuals deemed dangerous to themselves or others. Similar legislation has been enacted in 19 states and the District of Columbia with bipartisan support.
“I think everyone — leadership from speakers, as well as other leaders — have expressed a desire to do something and move forward,” Lee said at the police precinct that responded to the March 27 shooting at the Covenant School
“I do believe we should get it done during this session,” he added.
