Tennessee Senate Bill SB2178

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24
• Failed: 4/2/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 33 and Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13, relative to firearms.

Impact

If implemented, SB2178 would significantly alter the legal landscape surrounding gun ownership in Tennessee. By allowing individuals to voluntarily opt-out of their right to purchase firearms, the legislation seeks to strike a balance between individual rights and public safety. The law would require those intending to enroll in this waiver to submit specific documentation to the TBI, which would also keep this information confidential from the public. Additionally, violators of the waiver would face criminal charges, emphasizing the bill's serious approach to managing firearm access among vulnerable populations.

Summary

Senate Bill 2178, known as the Suicide Prevention Act of 2024, aims to amend the Tennessee Code regarding firearms with a specific focus on mental health issues. The bill proposes the establishment of a program by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) that allows individuals with mental health concerns to voluntarily waive their right to purchase firearms. This initiative is intended to reduce instances of gun violence related to mental illness, including suicides and mass shootings, by preventing potentially dangerous individuals from obtaining firearms while ensuring their rights are preserved through a revocable waiver system.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB2178 appears to be mixed, reflecting the complex dynamics of gun control and mental health advocacy. Supporters argue that this measure is a necessary step in preventing tragedies linked to mental health issues, such as suicides and shootings. Critics, however, express concerns over the implications for civil liberties, fearing that the bill could undermine individuals' rights without adequately addressing the underlying problems of mental health care and support.

Contention

Notable points of contention related to SB2178 include debates over the practicality and responsibility of the TBI in administering this waiver program. Opponents are apprehensive about the potential stigmatization of individuals who require mental health services and the adequacy of protections for their privacy. Furthermore, discussions have highlighted the need for comprehensive mental health resources that work in tandem with such legislation, rather than relying solely on restrictive measures that might not fully address the root causes of violence related to firearms.