COLUMBIA, SC (AP) — A proposal to allow a first responder to take a gun onto a school campus during an emergency is advancing in the Legislature.
The House Judiciary Committee’s approval came six months after a volunteer firefighter stopped a deadly rampage at a South Carolina elementary school. The bill is up for debate Tuesday on the House floor.
It would allow a firefighter or paramedic who holds a concealed weapon permit to get certified by taking a one-week course.
Sponsoring Rep. Phil Lowe of Florence says first responders should be able to defend themselves.
Last September, a 14-year-old boy shot and killed his father, then drove to Townville Elementary School and opened fire, fatally shooting a 6-year-old and injuring two others.
It was a 30-year veteran volunteer firefighter who tackled the teen.
