Bill Ozier came before the State Senate Judiciary Committee Tuesday afternoon with a warning

"It's certainly more of a concern than you might otherwise think," said Ozier.

The chair of the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce worries what overseas companies might think if state lawmakers pass the so-called "Guns in Trunks" bill.

It gives carry permit holders the right to leave a gun in the car at work even if their employers don't want them to.

"This is a subject that's important to them and when they decide whether to expand an existing operation or put a new operation in they may look at another state that's not as gun friendly," said Ozier.

That's one of several concerns businesses have about the bill as it moves through the legislative process.

A similar bill failed last year but the one this year passed the Judiciary Committee Tuesday and is on it's way to the full Senate.

Ozier hopes lawmakers will consider a few changes before voting on it.

"We'd like to see if an employee brings their gun in under this bill they be required to let the employer know they have a gun in the car," said Ozier.

The bill's sponsor in the Senate, Franklin Republican Jack Johnson, isn't open to that change.

"I'm sympathetic to that but there's also part of me that says what business is it of theirs.  It's the inside of their car," said Johnson.

Johnson says supporters have worked hard to make tweaks to this year's version of the bill.

It only allows people with a gun carry permit the right to leave their guns in the car at work but it applies to every employer including colleges.

"People who've attained a handgun carry permit can be trusted.  They're law abiding citizens they should be able to keep the gun in the car," said Johnson.

The bill also has to pass the State House.So Called "Guns in Trunks" Bill Advances To Full Senate--Sky Arnold