Be Careful Where You Eat in Tennessee

June 12, 2009

BE CAREFUL WHERE YOU EAT IN TENNESSEE... The Tennessee State Government, in their infinite wisdom, have now passed a law allowing concealed weapons to be carried into restaurants and into bars that serve food. The governor did the right thing and vetoed it. The state legislature quickly overrode the veto and it is now law. My friends who carry guns say they want to right to protect themselves and their families. I said, "From what, a disgruntled hamburger? An errant french fry?" If you think the restaurant or bar is dangerous or could be dangerous, don't take your family in there. If it's in a bad neighborhood, go somewhere else. In my 48 years I've never felt the need for a gun anywhere, much less in a restaurant or a bar. I do own a shotgun that was given to me as a gift. I shot it a few times and put in my closet. It was fun but I don't feel the need to take it out to dinner with me. The law states that owners have to take their guns to their cars after 11:00 PM. That's BRILLIANT because all the real problems don't start until 11:01 PM. Nobody hassles anyone until after 11:00 PM - everyone knows that. I think a fair consideration would be for the Tennessee State Legislature to allow citizens to carry guns inside government buildings. It should be fine as long as everyone puts their guns away by 11:00 PM. But no, the Tennessee State Legislature will not allow guns where they work. No way! Why, you ask? Well that's because they are afraid something bad might happen - like someone getting shot. They are right about that. And I think it's just a matter of time before something bad happens in a Tennessee restaurant or bar. However, I really hope I am wrong. Personally, I have a hard time imagining a more reckless or irresponsible law. Yes, yes, yes I know all about the 2nd Amendment. But I also know a lot about common sense. We limit where people are allowed to smoke cigarettes because we are concerned about the health of all citizens - not just the ones who want a smoke. Why is it so bad to have limits on where guns are allowed? Guns and alcohol do not mix. People say that "Guns don't kill people. People do." Well, people pull the triggers and that's enough for me. I'll be eating out a lot less in Tennessee.