A coalition of states and a non-profit legal group separately filed briefs against a district court ruling on Wednesday that purported to block a Tennessee law restricting sexually explicit performances in front of children.
In late June, U.S. District Judge Thomas Parker in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee blocked the state’s “Adult Entertainment Act” after Friends of George’s, a self-described “LGBTQ theatre company” based in Memphis, filed a suit challenging the law.
Parker said the law placed an unconstitutional restriction on freedom of speech and was “unconstitutionally vague and substantially overbroad.”
But an eighteen-state coalition and America First Legal group filed amicus briefs asking the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit to overturn the district-court ruling and support Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti, who immediately <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/tennessee-moves-to-defend-laws-shielding-kids-from-trans-procedures-explicit-performances" target="_blank" rel="noopener">appealed</a> the judgment to defend the state law.
“Protecting children from obscene and lewd behavior is not a new idea. We need to let kids be kids, and the state has legal authority to ensure their protection,” South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson said in a news release <a href="https://www.thecentersquare.com/tennessee/article_7c888a52-4723-11ee-9273-97c36b3a1f2e.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reported</a> by The Center Square.
Wilson led the coalition that also included Alabama, Alaska, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia and West Virginia.
“I believe the Court wrongly ruled against the law, and I’m happy to lead a coalition of support for the law on appeal.”
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed the law in March that outlawed adult cabaret male or female impersonators from performing “nudity, sexual excitement, sexual conduct, excess violence or sadomasochistic abuse” on public property. However, such “drag shows” could still occur in age-restricted venues under the law.
America First Legal vice president and general counsel Gene Hamilton told The Daily Wire in an emailed statement that the legal group stands with Tennesseeans supporting the law.
“We are proud to stand with our friends in Tennessee in defense of innocent children, and in opposition to erroneous, sweeping court orders that misapply the law based on the urging of radical activists,” Hamilton said.
The legal group argued the district court’s ruling gave Memphis “pride” parade organizers, “drag queens,” and other performers complete freedom to expose children “to harmful sexualized content such as intercourse, masturbation, sado-masochism, and other perverted sex acts.”
“No child should ever be exposed to the conduct at issue in this case — ever — and it is our hope that the Sixth Circuit overturns the injunction in this case,” Hamilton added.

Didi Blue Hart performs in drag during a drag show and story ho

18-State Coalition, Legal Group File Briefs Against Court Ruling That Deemed TN Law Shielding Kids From Sexually Explicit Performances ‘Unconstitutional’

18-State Coalition, Legal Group Appeal Ruling That Deemed TN Law Shielding Kids From Sexually Explicit Performances "Unconstitutional"

Bill Lee

Children

Courts

Drag Queens

Drag show

Free Speech

Tennessee

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A special session of the <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/tennessee">Tennessee</a> General Assembly called by Republican Governor <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/bill-lee">Bill Lee</a> to deal with “public safety” began on Monday as Left-leaning protesters gathered to push for more gun control.
The August 21 special session comes months after a transgender-identifying shooter killed six people at The Covenant School in <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/nashville">Nashville</a>, and Lee has advocated for a variation of a red flag law. In his proclamation earlier this month, Lee said that the session would deal with issues of mental health, gun storage guidelines, human trafficking, and “temporary mental health orders of protection.”
The first meeting of the Senate ended after about 20 minutes while the House session went on for almost two hours. Republican Senator Janice Bowling moved to the end the session saying that it there was no emergency that <a href="https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/politics/2023/08/21/live-updates-tennessee-legislature-special-session-public-safety-guns-starts/70618843007/">required</a> the extra meeting. Last week Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson said that red flag laws and any kind of order of protection laws had a zero percent chance of making it through during the special session.
Debate in the House focused on the rules, including debate on whether to adopt new disciplinary rules for members who cause disruptions.
During the debate, Democrat lawmakers claimed the rules were undemocratic and Rep. Justin Jones claimed Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton was racist. Jones was <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/tennessee-gop-expels-democrat-following-state-capitol-storming">previously expelled</a> from the House for helping to lead a protest from the House floor that disrupted proceedings.
After 80 minutes of debate, the rules package passed 73-23. “These rules provide equality for 99 members who represent 7 million Tennesseans,” Republican Rep. Gino Bulso said. &#8220;If a member cannot conduct the member&#8217;s self with civility, they ought to sit down.&#8221;
Democrat Rep. Jeremy Pearson, another of the Democrats who was expelled for leading a protest from the House floor, said Republicans only offer thoughts and prayers after shootings. Pearson previously voted against a bipartisan bill that included school safety measures in the aftermath of the Covenant shooting.
Protesters chanted and screamed at Republican lawmakers as they left the House floor after the session was adjourned. Some protesters in and around the capitol building in Nashville held up signs like &#8220;we demand gun reform,&#8221; &#8220;protect kids not guns,&#8221; and &#8220;no more dead children.&#8221; Several groups were wearing shirts by the group Moms Demand Action and a group of Covenant mothers.
There were several people in attendance who opposed of red flag laws. Chavez Lopez, who works as an electrical engineer in Nashville, said that he was there to make his voice heard and support the Second Amendment. He told The Daily Wire he was disappointed that there were not more pro-Second Amendment protesters present.
Several members of the Nashville Young Republicans were also present at the capitol. &#8220;The Nashville Young Republicans are proud to stand with our leaders as they advocate for the safety of our communities across the state. Our Republican leadership needs our support as they continue to fight to ensure that gun rights are not curtailed in our state,&#8221; the Nashville Young Republicans told The Daily Wire after both the Senate and House had adjourned.

Nashville Students Hold Walkout To Demand Gun Safety In Wake Of School Shooting

Gun Control Protesters Show Up In Tennessee As ‘Public Safety’ Special Session Begins

Gun Control

Nashville

The Covenant School

Tennessee Republican Governor <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/bill-lee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bill Lee</a> has called a special session to deal with “public safety” as Democrats in the state push for more gun control. 
The August 21 special session will come months after a transgender-identifying shooter killed six people at The Covenant School in Nashville, and Lee has advocated for a variation of a red flag law. In his <a href="https://tnsos.net/publications/proclamations/files/2517.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">proclamation</a> this week, Lee said that the session would deal with issues of mental health, gun storage guidelines, human trafficking, and “temporary mental health orders of protection.” 
“As our nation faces evolving public safety threats, Tennessee remains vigilant and is taking continued action to protect communities while preserving the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens,” Lee <a href="https://www.tn.gov/governor/news/2023/8/8/gov--lee-issues-official-call--presents-legislative-priorities-ahead-of--public-safety-special-session.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">said</a> in a statement. 
Republican leadership in the legislature has largely opposed any consideration of potential red flag legislation, while Lee’s <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/poll-most-tennesseans-want-authorities-focusing-on-dangerous-people-not-guns-as-governor-pushes-order-of-protection-law" target="_blank" rel="noopener">office has said</a> his proposal shouldn’t be considered a red flag proposal. 
“To be clear, the Governor does not support red flag laws. His proposal is different from any law across the country – it would strengthen Tennessee’s existing law around the order of protection process for cases of domestic violence and enhance support for law enforcement, ensure due process, require the highest burden of proof, and boost mental health support,” Press Secretary Jade Byers told The Daily Wire in June. 
Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson and House Speaker Cameron Sexton, both Republicans, have <a href="https://www.wkrn.com/news/tennessee-politics/tn-public-safety-special-session/?email=84885943124850418dccfffa5f984fb2b1450cf1&amp;emaila=6cb861e5998d3d6a1ce8452947dee058&amp;emailb=78504d1586e2066c8a05f4b619c2e64c552dbc337ec8d9ba2cb59caa7c91ecac&amp;utm_source=Sailthru&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=Breaking%20News%20-%20WKRN%20-%20Breaking%20News%20-%20August%208%2C%202023%2C%2010:28%20pm%20UTC&amp;utm_content=breaking%20news&amp;utm_term=Breaking%20News" target="_blank" rel="noopener">indicated</a> that any red flag-style legislation would be a non-starter. 
“From a philosophical standpoint, I have always opposed what is commonly referred to as a red flag, order of protection bill, again, because I deem them to be ineffective,” Johnson said. “Certainly in the wake of the Supreme Court decision, known as the Bruen decision, I think they are constitutionally suspect at best, blatantly unconstitutional at worst.”
“As far as the enhanced orders of protection, red flag laws, yeah, you’re not going to see us go down that road,” Sexton said on Tuesday. 
Some Republicans have urged the release of the manifesto from The Covenant School shooter before the special session, while the Tennessee Executive Republican Committee has <a href="https://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2023/aug/05/tennessee-gop-executive-committee-tfp/#:~:text=—%20Tennessee%20Republican%20State%20Executive%20Committee,despite%20most%20GOP%20leaders%27%20opposition." target="_blank" rel="noopener">said</a> that the session should be canceled. 
The announcement comes as Democrats in the state take a bus tour to talk about gun violence, making its final stop in Nashville as the session begins. 
“Since Republicans gained controlling power, the Tennessee General Assembly has loosened gun laws and abolished common sense gun safety reforms, such as mandatory gun safety classes and background checks for going armed, gun permits, and restrictions on carrying in many public places,” a <a href="https://tnsenatedems.medium.com/statewide-bus-tour-to-end-gun-violence-rolls-towards-special-session-525c7101f67a" target="_blank" rel="noopener">press release</a> from the Democratic Senate caucus said. 
Conservative groups in the state have vocally opposed any move toward red flag laws.
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“Governor Lee’s <a href="https://tnsos.net/publications/proclamations/files/2517.pdf">proclamation</a> makes it abundantly clear that he is on board with the long standing calls from notable Democrats like Justin Jones and Joe Biden to enact gun control in Tennessee,” John Harris of the Tennessee Firearms Association <a href="https://tennesseefirearms.com/news/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wrote</a>. “Rather than just being candid and stating he wants a Red Flag law, Bill Lee urges for the passage of a &#8216;temporary mental health order of protection&#8217; as he did in April 2023 shortly after the Covenant School murders.”
The Tennessee Faith and Freedom Coalition, a conservative policy and advocacy group, has previously urged Lee to cancel the special session and has vocally opposed red flag laws. In a statement following Lee’s proclamation, they pointed to aspects of the proclamation that would deal with human trafficking. 
“As we’ve noted before, while noting certain areas of disagreement on certain other issues, we’ve had very productive meetings with Governor Lee and his staff on this issue, making a mutual commitment to work together in the furtherance of destroying child and human trafficking,” a statement from the group said.

Tennessee Governor Calls For ‘Public Safety’ Special Session As Democrats Push For Gun Control

Tennessee Governor Calls For 'Public Safety' Special Session As Democrats Push For Gun Control

General

Politics

Most <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/gov-bill-lee-to-send-tennessee-national-guard-troops-to-combat-unprecedented-crisis-at-the-border" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tennesseans</a> want authorities to focus on arresting dangerous people rather than confiscating weapons from those deemed mentally ill, according to a new poll that comes as Republican Governor Bill Lee <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/gov-bill-lee-calls-on-legislature-to-pass-red-flag-law-signs-exec-order-intensifying-gun-background-checks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">pushes</a> for a variation of a red flag law following the Covenant School shooting. 
Two-thirds of those surveyed want current laws to be enforced to remove dangerous people from the public “rather than passing new ones that would leave them in the neighborhood,” according to a <a href="https://coefficient.org/tn-2a-memo/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">co/efficient poll</a> shared exclusively with The Daily Wire. Lee has called for a special session in August to pass the gun legislation, sparking debate within the Tennessee GOP, which is largely made up of staunch pro-Second Amendment conservatives. Lee’s office attempted to assuage <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/conservatives-slam-tennessee-gov-lee-for-calling-special-session-after-lawmakers-reject-gun-bill" target="_blank" rel="noopener">conservative fears</a>, telling The Daily Wire that the governor’s proposal is different from red flag laws passed by other states. 
“To be clear, the Governor does not support red flag laws. His proposal is different from any law across the country – it would strengthen Tennessee&#8217;s existing law around the order of protection process for cases of domestic violence and enhance support for law enforcement, ensure due process, require the highest burden of proof, and boost mental health support,” said Press Secretary Jade Byers. 
The co/efficient survey, conducted between May 30 and June 1, gathered data from 1,770 likely general election voters. According to the poll, Lee gained support among voters when he signed a bill into law requiring an armed security officer at every Tennessee public school — 77% of those surveyed supported the move.
“It’s important to note that this proposal is just one part of the ongoing, larger conversation with legislators about a number of proposals to strengthen public safety and preserve constitutional rights,” Byers added. “The Governor will continue to work with the General Assembly to secure schools and protect communities, just like we did with our strong school safety package this year, which included more than $230 million to&#8221; various school security and mental health resources. 
The Republican governor&#8217;s push for more school security and an &#8220;order of protection&#8221; law comes in the wake of a shooter murdering three students and three adults at The Covenant School in Nashville on March 27. The 28-year-old trans-identifying shooter was receiving treatment for an “<a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/nashville-shooter-was-receiving-treatment-for-emotional-disorder-police" target="_blank" rel="noopener">emotional disorder</a>,” according to Nashville police, and her parents did not want her to own guns.
Red flag laws, also called “extreme risk protection” laws, are in effect in 19 states — including in Republican-led Indiana and Florida. The controversial laws specifically target those deemed to have mental health issues and allow a state court to issue an order for law enforcement to confiscate weapons from those ruled to be at risk.
Opponents of red flag laws argue that they pose a threat to Second Amendment rights and due process, and do not prevent criminal acts. Lee’s proposal is slightly different as it requires a hearing where a person can offer a defense before a judge would be allowed to order authorities to confiscate weapons, <a href="https://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2023/jun/03/tn-gov-lees-red-flag-proposal-narrower-slower-tfp/#/questions" target="_blank" rel="noopener">according</a> to the Chattanooga Times Free Press. Before ordering that a person’s guns be taken away, a judge would have to see proof of &#8220;mental illness, serious behavioral condition or serious emotional disturbance.&#8221;
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When first surveyed, 62% of Tennessee voters backed a red flag law, but that support dropped to just 41% after the survey explained that the law confiscates firearms of those deemed to have a mental illness but “leaves threatening individuals in the community.” Thirty-seven percent said they oppose a red flag law and 22% are unsure.
Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton told The Daily Wire that he is currently working to prepare for the special session, emphasizing that he wants to focus on re-examining existing laws.
“I do not support red flag laws,&#8221; Sexton said. &#8220;I have been working with stakeholders, the medical community, law enforcement, and the judicial system in preparation for the special session. We have existing laws in code that can be used; we must re-examine how they are or are not working, revise them if necessary, and close any existing loopholes.&#8221;

Poll: Most Tennesseans Want Authorities Focusing On Dangerous People, Not Guns, As Governor Pushes ‘Order Of Protection’ Law

Poll: Most Tennesseans Want Authorities To Focusing On Dangerous People, Not Guns, As Governor Pushes 'Order Of Protection' Law 

Gun Laws

School Shooting

Governor <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/bill-lee">Bill Lee</a> (R-TN)  authorized Thursday the deployment of 100 <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/tennessee">Tennessee</a> National Guard troops to help secure the southern border in the wake of record-level crossings and illegal entries into the United States.
Lee joins other Republican governors, like Mississippi Governor <a href="https://apnews.com/article/mississippi-governor-mexico-border-national-guard-aff6a8741893ff40a1697eaaadf6e55f">Tate Reeves</a> and Florida Governor<a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/florida-sends-800-soldiers-300-law-enforcement-officers-to-help-secure-u-s-border-in-texas"> Ron DeSantis</a>, in sending help to Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who has called on the Biden administration to take stronger measures to stop the flood of people crossing into the U.S. from Mexico. 
“America continues to face an unprecedented border crisis that threatens our nation’s security and the safety of Tennesseans,” Lee said in a statement obtained by The Daily Wire. “The federal government owes Americans a plan to secure our country, and in the meantime, states continue to answer this important call to service. I am again authorizing the Tennessee National Guard to help secure the Southern border, and I commend these troops for providing critical support.”
According to the governor’s office, the Tennessee troops will help patrol along the border, help with barrier placement, clear roads, and assist with outpost operations as part of Abbott’s “Operation Lone Star.” This is not the first time that Tennesseans have been sent to the border, as Lee also sent about 50 troops to the border in December 2021. 
“The men and women of the Tennessee National Guard are always ready to serve their country anywhere, anytime,” said Brigadier General Warner Ross, Tennessee’s Adjutant General. “These troops are a capable contingent that will continue our long-standing tradition of responding to the call to aid our fellow Americans. The Tennessee National Guard is proud to serve and support our state partners in safeguarding the United States along the U.S. Southern border.”
Illegal crossings at the border have remained high under President Joe Biden, whose administration <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/biden-heads-to-beach-after-shattering-all-time-record-with-83000-illegal-aliens-storming-border-in-1-week">saw the record</a> for most crossings in the days surrounding the expiration of Title 42, a Trump-era policy that allowed Border Patrol to turn away migrants based on COVID concerns. According to Border Patrol, roughly 83,000 people crossed the border the week that Title 42 ended. 
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Lee’s actions follow a joint statement from 24 Republican governors who called out the Biden administration for its policies at the border and in support of Abbott. 
“All states have suffered from the effects of deadly illegal drugs coming across the border, and every state is a border state due to the devastating influx of drugs in our communities. Republican governors are leading the way to address the border crisis by increasing fentanyl sentencing and increasing support for law enforcement interdiction of drugs, among other measures,” the governors <a href="https://www.rga.org/republican-governors-support-governor-abbotts-border-efforts/">said</a>. 
Drug deaths have been a particular focus for lawmakers as dangerous drugs have continued to be smuggled across the border. In Tennessee, the state’s bureau of investigation has raised alarm bells over drugs linked to Mexican cartels that<a href="https://fox17.com/news/local/tbi-warns-about-active-drug-cartels-operating-in-tennessee-mexico-fentanyl-drug-cartel-dea"> it says</a> are “very engaged in operations in Tennessee.”

US-MEXICO-IMMIGRATION-MIGRANTS

Gov. Bill Lee To Send Tennessee National Guard Troops To Combat ‘Unprecedented Crisis’ At The Border

Greg Abbott

Illegal Immigration

Southern Border

<a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/tennessee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tennessee</a> Republican Governor <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/bill-lee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bill Lee</a> signed a new bill into law Thursday that allows teachers in the Volunteer State to be free from mandatory union dues and increases pay for teachers. 
The law, known as the Teacher Paycheck Protection Act, stipulates that minimum teacher pay will be $50,000 a year by 2026 and that teachers unions cannot automatically deduct money from those paychecks. Teachers unions across the state have been criticized over political activism and lawmakers in the state have tried for years to remove the mandatory union fees. 
“We’re also making sure that teachers actually receive their well-deserved raises and that union membership dues are never automatically deducted from teacher paychecks. Teachers should have control over their hard-earned paycheck and taxpayer dollars should be used to educate students and not fund politics,” Lee said in a video first obtained by The Daily Wire. 
According to supporters of the legislation, the Tennessee Education Association (TEA), the state’s largest teacher union, <a href="https://www.thecentersquare.com/tennessee/article_a963767e-deda-11ed-8c7f-5752f74a3f78.html">gave over</a> half a million dollars to political candidates in 2018 and had over $9 million in revenue that same year. 
In recent years, TEA has waded into highly contested political issues, taking a <a href="https://www.influencewatch.org/labor-union/tennessee-education-association/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Left-leaning approach</a> on things from COVID policies to charter schools. The TEA opposed a 2021 law banning the teaching of Critical Race Theory in the classroom and has come out against legislation for charter schools.
During its passage through the General Assembly, the bill was backed by Americans for Prosperity Tennessee, a conservative group. It was sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-Franklin) and House Majority Leader William Lamberth (R-Portland). 
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“Teachers are tasked with the incredibly important job of educating the next generation,” Johnson said in a statement. “This legislation recognizes the importance of teachers’ work by raising their pay and protecting their paychecks. It will also enhance the quality of our education system by helping attract and retain talented teachers.&#8221;
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The salary increases would be implemented gradually until teachers would get a base salary of $50,000 for the 2026-2027 school year. Lee described the increase in pay as “the largest pay raise in Tennessee history” for teachers, adding that it made Tennessee “a top ten state for teacher pay.”
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Sen. Bill Powers (R-Clarksville), another sponsor of the legislation, said that it would help &#8220;mitigate teacher shortages.&#8221;
Tennessee Republicans have also passed legislation this year that cracks down on the availability of obscene books available at schools across the state.

US-POLITICS-TRUMP-SENIORS-VIRUS-HEALTH

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee Signs Bill To Free Teachers From Union Dues, Raise Teacher Salaries

Education

Teachers Unions

<a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/tennessee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tennessee</a> House Republicans have sent a letter to the <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/nashville" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nashville</a> chief of police asking for the release of the writings and toxicology reports for the trans-identifying shooter who killed six people at a Christian school in March. 
Republicans at the state House, led by House Speaker Cameron Sexton and House Republican Caucus Chair Jeremy Faison, sent the letter on Monday saying the information is vital to understanding the killer&#8217;s motives before a special session called by Republican Governor <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/bill-lee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bill Lee</a>. 
&#8220;In order for this special session to be successful, it is paramount we understand the behavior and motives of the Covenant School perpetrator,” the letter says. “We respectfully request the release of the perpetrator’s writings as well as relevant medical records and toxicology reports.”
The letter, addressed to Chief John Drake, began by thanking Metro Nashville Police Department for its response to the mass shooting, which killed three 9-year-old students and three staff members. 
“We are united in our shared common goal and duty to protect the safety and well-being of Tennesseans. The release of these records is critical to the General Assembly’s ability to construct effective solutions that can prevent future acts of violence. The citizens of this state and their elected representatives must have adequate time to review them,” the letter, signed by 66 Republican representatives, says. 
Lee, who signed a $230 million bill that increases funding for school safety measures last week, has called a special session for August 21 to review potential gun legislation. The <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/gov-bill-lee-calls-on-legislature-to-pass-red-flag-law-signs-exec-order-intensifying-gun-background-checks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">governor has asked</a> for a type of “red flag” law that he has referred to as “an order of protection law.” 
Republicans in the state assembly have so far resisted calls for red flag-style legislation, arguing that those policies infringe on <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/second-amendment" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Second Amendment</a> rights. GOP lawmakers have also said they would like more details on the shooter’s motive before considering any legislation. 
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“The perpetrator of these horrific acts murdered six Christians and Tennesseans have demanded we take action,” Faison said Monday. “If we hope to pass meaningful legislation that effectively deters this kind of targeted attack, we must have all the facts to make informed decisions.”
Nashville police have refrained from releasing the killer&#8217;s manifesto, citing pending legal action. A Davidson County judge <a href="https://www.foxnews.com/us/nashville-covenant-school-shooters-unredacted-manifesto-given-judge-ahead-public-hearing-report" target="_blank" rel="noopener">was given</a> an unredacted copy on Friday to review.

Six Killed In Mass Shooting At A Private School In Nashville

TN House Republicans Ask For Release Of Nashville Shooter’s Toxicology Report, Writings

TN House Republicans Ask For Release Of Nashville Shooter's Toxicology Report, Writings

Mass Shooting

Republicans

<a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/tennessee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tennessee</a> officials responded to the <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/doj-sues-tennessee-to-reverse-ban-on-trans-treatment-for-minors" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Biden administration&#8217;s lawsuit against</a> the state over its law banning transgender hormone treatments and surgeries for minors, promising to fight to uphold the law and stand up for children. 
Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti said that the state would “vigorously” fight to keep the law in place. “The federal government has joined the ACLU and an elite New York law firm in attacking a bipartisan law that protects children from irreversible harm. I welcome the opportunity to litigate these issues and vigorously defend Tennessee’s laws,” Skrmetti said in a statement.
Republican Governor Bill Lee said that the suit was an example of the overreach of the federal government.
“Tennessee is committed to protecting children from permanent, life-altering decisions. This is federal overreach at its worst, and we will work with Attorney General Skrmetti to push back in court and stand up for children,” he said.
Majority Leader William Lamberth (R-Portland), the representative who introduced the bill in the House, said that the suit did not come as a surprise, but that the state would continue to fight back against transgender ideology.
“This attack from President Biden&#8217;s radical left administration is not unexpected. Under no circumstance will Tennessee allow a child to undergo a procedure that destroys their normal, healthy development into adulthood. We will continue to fight back against this cruel ideology that irreversibly harms children. Gender dysphoria is a mental health disorder that should be treated with love and understanding, therapy, and other appropriate interventions,” Lamberth said in a statement obtained by The Daily Wire.
According to the DOJ, Tennessee’s ban on transgender treatments for minors violates the Equal Protection Clause. The law discriminates against “transgender youth” diagnosed with gender dysphoria, blocking transgender treatments for them “while allowing non-transgender minors access to the same or similar procedures,” the DOJ claims.
Lee <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tennessee-ban-gender-affirming-care-trans-youth-drag-shows/">signed</a> the bill into law in March, but it is not scheduled to take effect until July. After July 1, it will bar doctors from giving patients puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and transgender surgery if they are under the age of 18. The bill received bipartisan support in the state legislature.
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Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) also condemned the lawsuit. “We are trying to protect children from a radical left agenda that has permanent &amp; irreversible consequences for our children’s health and well-being,” she said. “It is a gross federal overreach for Biden’s DOJ to try to override the state’s judgment about how best to protect kids.”

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Tennessee Officials Sued By Biden Hit Back With Promise To Fight Child Sex-Change Push

Tennessee Officials Respond To DOJ Lawsuit, Promise To Fight Back Against 'Cruel Ideology' Targeting Children

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The <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/department-of-justice" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Department of Justice</a> sued <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/tennessee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tennessee</a> on Wednesday over a state law prohibiting transgender hormone treatments and surgeries for minors.
Tennessee’s ban on sex-change treatments for minors violates the Equal Protection Clause, the DOJ said in a <a href="https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-challenges-tennessee-law-bans-critical-medically-necessary-care" target="_blank" rel="noopener">statement</a>. The law discriminates against “transgender youth” diagnosed with gender dysphoria, blocking sex-change treatments for them “while allowing non-transgender minors access to the same or similar procedures.”
“No person should be denied access to necessary medical care just because of their transgender status,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke, who leads the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division. “The right to consider your health and medically-approved treatment options with your family and doctors is a right that everyone should have, including transgender children, who are especially vulnerable to serious risks of depression, anxiety and suicide. The Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department will continue to aggressively challenge all forms of discrimination and unlawful barriers faced by the LGBTQI+ community.”
Tennessee Republican Governor Bill Lee hit back at President Joe Biden&#8217;s DOJ in a statement to The Daily Wire: “Tennessee is committed to protecting children from permanent, life altering decisions. This is federal overreach at its worst, and we will work with Attorney General Skrmetti to push back in court and stand up for children.”
Lee <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tennessee-ban-gender-affirming-care-trans-youth-drag-shows/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">signed</a> the bill into law in March, but it is not scheduled to take effect until July. After July 1, it will bar doctors from giving patients puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and transgender surgery if they are under the age of 18. The bill received bipartisan support in the state legislature.
&#8220;These children do not need these medical procedures to be able to flourish as adults,&#8221; said House Majority Leader William Lamberth (R) at the time. &#8220;They need mental health treatment. They need love and support, and many of them need to be able to grow up to become the individuals that they were intended to be.&#8221;
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In conjunction with the law banning sex-change treatment and procedures, Lee also <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/tennessee-gov-signs-bills-protecting-children-from-sex-change-procedures-drag-shows">signed</a> the first state ban on holding sexually explicit drag shows in public or in an area where children could see them. Violators would be hit with a misdemeanor, while repeat violators may be charged with a felony.
“The bill defines an ‘adult cabaret performance’ to mean a performance in a location other than an adult cabaret that features topless dancers, go-go dancers, exotic dancers, strippers, male or female impersonators who provide entertainment that appeals to prurient interest, or similar entertainers, regardless of whether or not performed for consideration,” according to the bill’s <a href="https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0003&amp;ga=113">summary</a>.

DOJ Sues Tennessee To Reverse Ban On Trans Treatments For Minors

DOJ Sues Tennessee To Reverse Ban On Trans Treatment For Minors

Gov. <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/bill-lee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bill Lee</a> (R-TN) called for Tennessee’s Republican-majority legislature to pass a red flag law Tuesday after signing an executive order strengthening the state’s background checks on firearm buyers.
The new push comes two weeks after three children and three adults were murdered at the Covenant School in Nashville when a trans-identifying shooter made her way into the Christian school and gunned down students and staff. Lee <a href="https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/politics/2023/04/11/tennessee-gov-bill-lee-calls-for-order-of-protection-law-on-guns/70102868007/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">told</a> The Tennessean that he’s “asking the General Assembly to bring forward an order of protection law,” also known as a red flag law, which would enable the government to take firearms away from those who are found to be at risk to themselves or others.
“A new strong order of protection law will provide the broader population cover, safety, from those who are a danger to themselves or the population,” the governor said. “This is our moment to lead and to give the people of Tennessee what they deserve.”
Lee’s executive order creates a 72-hour period for any new criminal activity and court mental health information to be reported on the Tennessee Instant Check System, the background check system used by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI). Under the order, the TBI is required to tell Lee&#8217;s office and the General Assembly within two months of &#8220;any barriers to complete, accurate, and timely reporting of information that is accessible in TICS,&#8221; The Tennesseean reported.
Red flag laws — which are on the books in 19 states, including Republican-led states Indiana and Florida — specifically target those deemed to have mental health issues, and allow a state court to issue an order for law enforcement to confiscate weapons from those ruled to be at risk. The 28-year-old Covenant School shooter, who stockpiled seven firearms, was receiving treatment for an “<a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/nashville-shooter-was-receiving-treatment-for-emotional-disorder-police" target="_blank" rel="noopener">emotional disorder</a>,” according to Nashville police, and her parents did not want her to own guns.
Opponents of red flag laws argue that they pose a threat to Second Amendment rights and due process, and do not prevent criminal acts. Former National Rifle Association spokeswoman Dana Loesch told The Daily Wire, “Red flag laws are only about two things: removing your due process protections and seizing guns. The mental health of the individual in question is not treated. You’re declared guilty and penalized in an ex parte process, and after must pay to defend yourself before a judge. There is no evidence to support they reduce gun homicide. There already exist ways to have a dangerous individual adjudicated mentally unfit, or placed in temporary custody, due to the threat they pose either to themselves or others. Not exercising those options isn’t the same as no options existing.”
In a statement shared with The Daily Wire on Tuesday, Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton said that the House is “willing to work toward bipartisan solutions to protect all children at their schools, in their communities, and inside their homes” as long as any order of protection law has “a level of due process, protections from fraudulent claims, and a quick judicial hearing for individuals who pose imminent threats.”
“We all appreciate Gov. Lee’s leadership and his commitment to finding solutions to stop tragedies like the Covenant School shooting from two weeks ago,” Sexton added.
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When asked by The Daily Wire earlier this month about his position on a “red flag law,” Lee’s office said that it’s important to the governor to pursue solutions that will seek to protect both the lives and Constitutional rights of those in his state.
Earlier this month, Lee <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/gov-bill-lee-to-propose-plan-to-put-armed-guard-in-every-tennessee-school" target="_blank" rel="noopener">proposed</a> a plan to place an armed school resource officer (SRO) in every public school and provide funding for private schools to hire armed guards with the same level of training as those in public schools. Private schools would not be forced to join in on the program, The Tennessean reported.

Gov. Bill Lee Calls On Legislature To Pass Red Flag Law, Signs Exec Order Strengthening Gun Background Checks

Every <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/tennessee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tennessee</a> private and public school will have the resources necessary to hire an armed guard if Governor <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/topic/bill-lee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bill Lee</a> (R-TN) gets his plan through a Republican-led legislature.
Next week, Lee will propose a plan to funnel millions of dollars to public and private schools to beef up security following the mass shooting at a Nashville Christian elementary school on Monday. Lee’s plan would place an armed school resource officer (SRO) in every public school and provide funding for private schools to hire armed guards with the same level of training as those in public schools. Private schools would not be forced to join in on the program, The Tennessean <a href="https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/politics/2023/03/31/tennessee-gov-bill-lee-gun-reform-after-nashville-school-shooting/70066846007/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reported</a>.
&#8220;I think we all understand when people are fearful, when people are angry, when people lash out. I have those same emotions myself, we all do,&#8221; Lee said. &#8220;We have an obligation, I have an obligation, to do what I can and work together with leaders across this community to address people&#8217;s concerns and to protect our kids in whatever way we can.&#8221;
The Republican governor reportedly said he will work over the weekend to ensure his plan will get schools the funding and resources they need. Lee’s proposed budget earlier this year included $20 million for schools to use on security upgrades, but he wants to expand that funding to include private schools. The Covenant School, where a trans-identifying woman killed three adults and three 9-year-old children, is a private Presbyterian school.
Earlier this week, Tennessee Republican Sens. Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty <a href="https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2023/3/blackburn-hagerty-introduce-safe-school-act" target="_blank" rel="noopener">announced</a> that they will introduce The SAFE School Act at the federal level. The legislation seeks to establish “a $900 million grant program that will allow both public and private schools to train and hire veterans and former law enforcement officers to serve as school safety officers, hire off duty law enforcement officers, and provide funding to harden schools and increase physical security.”
The governor also addressed “mental health concerns,” adding that his new plan will seek more mental health support through school-based behavioral health liaisons, according to The Tennessean.
&#8220;There will be conversations across the board about mental health for students and mental health in general. And support for those who need help, and who do in fact become a threat to themselves or others,&#8221; Lee said.
Lee’s proposed plan to reinforce school security comes after hundreds of protesters <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/protesters-storm-tennessee-capitol-demanding-gun-control" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stormed</a> the Tennessee state capitol in Nashville on Thursday, demanding that lawmakers take action to pass gun control.
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Lee did not specifically mention gun control measures, such as “red flag laws” that would allow the government to take firearms away from those who are found to be at risk to themselves or others, but he did touch on the topic in one comment to The Tennessean.
&#8220;Most practical, thoughtful people believe that individuals who are a threat to themselves or to others shouldn’t have access to weapons,&#8221; Lee said. &#8220;In my view, that’s a practical, thoughtful approach.&#8221;
Asked to clarify his position on a &#8220;red flag law,&#8221; Lee&#8217;s office told The Daily Wire that it&#8217;s important to the governor to pursue solutions that will seek to protect both the lives and Constitutional rights of those in his state.
&#8220;In light of the recent tragedy at Covenant, the Governor is proposing further action within his current school safety proposals, including funding to place an SRO in every Tennessee school, boost physical school security and provide additional mental health resources for Tennesseans,&#8221; Lee&#8217;s office said in an email. &#8220;As the Governor mentioned yesterday, his goal is to continue to protect the constitutional rights of Tennesseans and protect Tennesseans from those who wish to do harm to themselves or others. He believes any practical solutions must ensure both.&#8221;

Gov. Bill Lee To Propose Plan To Put Armed Guard In Every Tennessee School

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Country singer Reba McEntire criticized Friday a new Tennessee law that bans drag shows from spaces where children could see them.
At the beginning of March, Republican Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee signed into law a bill taking effect April 1 that will ban “adult cabaret entertainment,” including drag shows, on public property or where minors can witness it. State Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson, a cosponsor of the bill, tweeted, “This bill gives confidence to parents that they can take their kids to a public or private show and will not be blindsided by a sexualized performance.”
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My bill, Senate Bill 3, is now headed to <a href="https://twitter.com/GovBillLee?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GovBillLee</a> to become law. This bill gives confidence to parents that they can take their kids to a public or private show and will not be blindsided by a sexualized performance.
&mdash; Jack Johnson (@SenJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenJohnson/status/1631334571273854993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Asked by <a href="https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/music/story/2023-03-31/reba-mcentire-drag-law-tennessee-hollywood-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Los Angeles Times</a> about the bill, McEntire responded, “I wish they would spend that much time and energy and money on feeding the homeless children in those two counties.”
When asked if she was surprised that the bill was passed, she replied, “Disappointed.”
“You know your take on the drag bill is potentially alienating to some in your audience,” the Times claimed.
“Boy, why? I mean, we’ve got a real problem in this country, and to be worrying about men wanting to dress up as women? God bless ’em to wear those high heels — I feel for ’em. But let’s center our attention on something that really needs attention,” McEntire answered, then added, “I try to stay away from disagreements and confrontations.”
Someone who violates the new Tennessee law the first time may be charged with a Class A misdemeanor; subsequent offenses will be classified as a Class E felony.
In June 2021, McEntire <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/reba-mcentire-south-dakota-gop-b1864721.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tweeted her irritation</a> that organizers for a Republican party fundraiser, at which South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem was a guest, listed her as a “special guest.”
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“Last night, an invitation to a political fundraiser with my name attached was sent out without my knowledge or permission. I had and have no plans to attend this event and had told the event organizers as such,” she tweeted.
“Throughout my career, I have stated that I do not get involved in politics and that remains true today,” she added.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">
Throughout my career, I have stated that I do not get involved in politics and that remains true today.
&mdash; Reba McEntire (@reba) <a href="https://twitter.com/reba/status/1403344278730981383?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Representatives for Noem’s gubernatorial campaign claimed McEntire had known about the fundraiser.
“The Kristi for Governor campaign follows standard operating procedure when it comes to confirming and listing hosts for the Governor’s events,” a campaign representative stated, adding that there was “written confirmation” that McEntire had planned to come and perform.

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Reba McEntire Rips New Tennessee Law Protecting Children From Drag Shows

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