Proposal to arm teachers delayed in Florida Senate, despite crowds who came for public comment session

They traveled to the state Capitol to make their views known about a controversial proposal to arm teachers.

They’ll have to wait for another day.

A Senate committee postponed public testimony Wednesday on a proposal that would allow classroom teachers to carry a firearm if they voluntarily undergo training.

At least 20 members of the advocacy group Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America — some from Gainesville — traveled to Tallahassee. People packed the room. Spectators stood along the walls of the meeting room with every chair filled.

But the idea is being considered again with a state commission investigating the Parkland shooting recommending that teachers be allowed to carry guns.

Twenty-five districts have opted to participate in the guardian program, including Broward County. School districts were also given the option of stationing a law enforcement officer at each campus, a far costlier option.

Terry Wiggins, an advocate with Moms Demand Action from Gainesville, said she plans to return. She said she will bring a van filled with like-minded people to Tallahassee for the next meeting.

“There’s always another day,” she said. “I am optimistic.”

Sun Sentinel correspondent Steve Bousquet contributed to this report.

sswisher@sunsentinel.com, 561-243-6634 or @SkylerSwisher

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