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A state lawmaker wants to protect Tennessee National Guard members from lawsuits if they try to use their own handguns to stop a terrorist attack.
Sen. Richard Briggs, R-Knoxville, plans to introduce the measure by January. He says he's developing it in consultation with Major General MaxHaston.
The Tennessee Guard commanderhas agreed to let Guardsmen carrytheir own handguns. ButHastonadds that, under current state law, they could be legally liable for injuries if they fire them.
The debate over arming military personnel stems from the July16thshootings in Chattanooga. Even though most sailors aren't allowed to carry sidearms on U.S. installations, officerTim White has said he fired a personal handgunat attacker MohammadYoussefAbdulazeez.
Earlier this month, Stars & Stripes reported Lt.Cmdr. White isunlikely to face charges, despite violating military policy. Anonline petitioncalling for him to be honored has gathered 25,000 signatures.
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