Tennessee Senate Bill SB7103

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/21/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 17, relative to safe storage of firearms.

Impact

The enactment of SB7103 would create clearer standards for firearm storage in Tennessee, particularly in vehicles, where incidents of theft and misuse can occur if firearms are left unattended or improperly secured. By mandating that firearms must be kept concealed and locked, this bill seeks to mitigate risks associated with unsecured firearms. This law may also influence how firearm owners perceive their responsibilities concerning the secure handling and storage of their weapons, fostering a more responsible gun ownership culture exemplified by safety and precaution.

Summary

Senate Bill 7103, introduced by Senator Oliver, aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated to establish guidelines for the safe storage of firearms, particularly in unattended motor vehicles. The bill explicitly advises individuals against leaving or storing firearms or ammunition in these vehicles unless secured from ordinary observation and locked within a trunk, glove box, or a container that is securely affixed to the vehicle. This provision is intended to enhance safety measures regarding firearms in public spaces and reduce the risk of unauthorized access and potential accidents or misuse of firearms in the community.

Contention

While the bill aims to improve public safety regarding firearm storage, it might face opposition from gun rights advocates who could argue that such regulations infringe upon personal freedoms and rights of firearm owners. The contention surrounding this bill centers on balancing the need for public safety against the rights of individuals to own and operate firearms as they see fit. The discussions may further involve differing opinions on what constitutes appropriate measures for ensuring firearms' security while maintaining access for responsible owners.