Guns Allowed in Bars Under Bill Passed by Tenn. Senate

Handgun concealed-carry permit holders would be allowed to take their guns into Tennessee bars — but not to drink — under a bill passed by the state Senate last week.

The Chattanoogan reported April 29 that the measure passed 23-9 in the Senate sets fines of up to $2,500 and up to a year in jail for those who drink alcohol while in possession of a handgun. Anyone found to be intoxicated while carrying a gun would lose their concealed-carry permit for three years.

Bars would be allowed to set policies banning guns, however.

A vote on the House version of the bill is pending.