Guns in Bars Advancing in Tn. House

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Legislation is advancing in the House that would allow handgun permit holders in Tennessee to carry their weapons where alcoholic beverages are served unless posted otherwise.

The measure sponsored by Rep. Curry Todd, a Collierville Republican, was approved 8-4 by the House Judiciary Committee on Tuesday.

A judge ruled last year that the guns in bars law is unconstitutionally vague. It made an exception for establishments that serve at least one meal on five days per week and where "the serving of such meals shall be the principal business conducted." Tennessee has no legal definition to distinguish bars from restaurants.

Critics of the law said it's unclear as to where patrons can and cannot carry their weapons. But Todd said his legislation clarifies that by allowing individuals to carry guns where alcoholic beverages are served "unless it's posted" not to.

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Read HB3125 at: http://capitol.tn.gov

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