Legislation, unanimously supported by Tennessee's House Delegation, would repeal ban on military personnel carrying firearms on bases and recruitment facilities.
"Far too often we have witnessed horrific acts of violence carried out against members of our armed forces right here in the United States," said Representative DesJarlais. "Unfortunately, current DOD policy leaves our military personnel unable to defend themselves in many of these situations. This commonsense, bipartisan legislation recognizes that we face a new era where terrorism and extremism exists both abroad and domestically. Therefore our men and women in uniform must have the ability to protect themselves regardless of where they are serving. I am proud to work with Representative Cohen on this issue and I appreciate the support we have received from our Tennessee colleagues."
"Those who volunteer to protect Americans abroad should not be prevented from protecting themselves when they return home," said Congressman Cohen. "We know our military facilities and recruitment centers are targets, and the five victims of last week's attack in Chattanooga are sad evidence that more must be done to keep them safe. I look forward to working with Congressman DesJarlais and a united Tennessee House Delegation to ensure we aren't unnecessarily putting our well-trained servicemen and women in harm's way."