This is a sample policy to serve as a template for a specific policy based on local needs. In October of 1996, the Department of Safety began issuing handgun carry permits pursuant to T.C.A. 39-17-1351. While Tennessee allows persons with a valid handgun carry permit to carry handguns in places where they are not otherwise prohibited by law, an employer has the right to set policy for the workplace. There is debate on this issue, but the consensus of most municipal governments is to prohibit guns in the workplace except for commissioned law enforcement officers and similar employees with a need to go armed in the performance of their duties.