A bid to let adults carry concealed weapons in Iowa schools was briefly discussed in the Iowa Senate tonight.
Republican Senator Mark Chelgren of Ottumwa said the idea to arm teachers and principals is a natural response to the tragedy at a Connecticut elementary school.
“I would expect, as I think I would do myself, to stand in front of those children, to protect them at all costs,” Chelgren said. “But I can tell you right now I also would expect the ability and the authorization to try to end that threat if at all possible.”
Chelgren tried to attach his proposal to an education reform bill.
“I have no problem dying for the children of Iowa,” Chelgren said. “Neither do I think teachers or the employees of schools in this state do either, but I’d rather see that happen after the clip that they have is emptied into the bad guy.”
A Democrat who makes decisions about what proposals may be voted upon during senate debate ruled Chelgren’s proposal was beyond the scope of the education reform bill.
AUDIO of Chelgren’s speech in senate (an equipment malfunction prevented recording for a few moments in the middle of his remarks)