Tennessee Senate Bill SB1819

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13, relative to firearms.

Impact

If enacted, SB1819 would have significant implications for state laws governing firearm possession and sales. By categorizing the violations of purchasing firearms or ammunition under specified prohibited conditions as Class C felonies, the bill seeks to enhance public safety. The measure ensures that those who knowingly sell or transfer firearms to barred individuals face serious legal consequences, thereby aiming to prevent dangerous situations that could arise from such transactions. This amendment is seen as a proactive step towards addressing gun violence and ensuring that firearms do not fall into the hands of those deemed unfit for ownership.

Summary

Senate Bill 1819 aims to amend Tennessee's laws pertaining to firearms and ammunition, specifically by tightening the regulations concerning who is prohibited from purchasing such items. The bill delineates clear criteria on offenses related to the purchase and transfer of firearms and ammunition, particularly focusing on individuals who are legally barred from owning these items. This includes individuals who have been judicially committed to mental institutions or those currently undergoing treatment for mental health conditions. Notably, this bill reinforces existing laws by explicitly stating the penalties associated with violating these restrictions.

Contention

The introduction of SB1819 has sparked debates among legislators and advocacy groups. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary measure to protect communities by preventing firearms from being accessible to those with mental health issues or a history of violence. Conversely, opponents raise concerns about the potential for overreach and the implications for responsible gun owners. They worry that the bill could unjustly penalize individuals who may inadvertently be caught up in the legal definitions or processes laid out in the legislation. This friction highlights the ongoing national conversation about gun rights, public safety, and mental health issues.