Tennessee House Bill HB1189

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 2/21/23
• Refer: 3/1/23
• Engrossed: 3/7/23
• Enrolled: 4/24/23
• Passed: 5/11/23
• Chaptered: 5/24/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 6; Title 29; Title 39 and Title 47, relative to qualified civil liability actions.

Impact

The passage of HB 1189 significantly impacts existing laws pertaining to civil liability for firearms and ammunition. By enacting this legislation, the state aims to provide greater protection to manufacturers and sellers from liability claims unless specific conditions are met, such as direct involvement in a crime or negligence in selling a defective product. This shift seeks to reduce the number of lawsuits filed against the firearms industry, potentially influencing how the market operates and interacts with related regulatory frameworks.

Summary

House Bill 1189 is a legislative measure aimed at amending several titles in the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically focusing on qualified civil liability actions related to firearms and ammunition. This bill establishes a legal framework that limits the circumstances under which a manufacturer or seller of firearms or ammunition can be held liable for damages resulting from unlawful or criminal misuse of their products. Key provisions include definitions for various terms such as 'qualified product' and the stipulations under which liability actions can be initiated against sellers, manufacturers, or dealers.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1189 appears to be largely supportive among conservatives and gun rights advocates, who view the bill as a necessary measure to protect lawful commerce in firearms and ammunition. However, it has also faced opposition from various groups advocating for gun control and victim's rights, arguing that the bill undermines accountability for manufacturers and could hinder efforts to address gun violence by limiting the ability of victims to seek redress for harm caused by negligent practices.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 1189 include concerns over public safety and the balance between protecting business interests and ensuring accountability for harmful actions. Critics argue that exempting manufacturers and sellers from liability could lead to irresponsible practices and insufficient oversight in the firearms market. Supporters counter that the bill is vital for encouraging responsible business practices and ensuring that lawful sellers are not burdened by excessive litigation based on the criminal misuse of their products.