MCLENNAN COUNTY, Texas — Texas firefighters and EMTs may soon be permitted to carry firearms while on duty.

State legislators recently introduced a bill that would allow firefighters and EMTs to carry firearms while responding to calls, reported the WacoTrib.com. However, some responders are opposed to the legislation.

“I would be in favor of leaving guns in the hands of police officers,” Waco Fire Chief Bobby Tatum said. “We have a specific mission to save lives and property, and I think carrying a firearm would cross the line in that regard.”