Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

Tennessee House Bill HB1583

Introduced
4/20/23  
Refer
4/20/23  
Refer
1/10/24  

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 38; Title 39; Title 47; Title 56 and Title 68, relative to firearm insurance.

Impact

The introduction of HB1583 is intended to enhance accountability among firearm owners and promote public safety by ensuring that individuals have insurance coverage for potential damages caused by their firearms. By mandating insurance, the bill seeks to mitigate financial risks associated with firearm usage, thereby possibly lowering the costs incurred by victims of firearm incidents. However, it may also bring about challenges in accessibility to firearm insurance for some individuals, raising concerns about affordability and availability within Tennessee's insurance market.

Summary

House Bill 1583 aims to amend various titles within the Tennessee Code Annotated relating to firearm insurance. The bill establishes a requirement for individuals who own firearms in Tennessee to maintain an active insurance policy that covers losses or damages that may result from the use of their firearms. This insurance must provide at least one million dollars in coverage and be documented to any party who suffers loss or damage due to the firearm's use. Violating this requirement would result in a Class C misdemeanor, carrying a fine of up to $300. The bill is proposed to take effect on July 1, 2023, emphasizing public welfare and safety for the community.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1583 appears mixed. Supporters argue that the bill is a proactive measure towards responsible gun ownership and could lead to a reduction in gun-related incidents by promoting financial responsibility. Critics, however, express concerns over the practicality and implications of such a requirement, suggesting it may disproportionately affect low-income individuals seeking to own firearms and possibly discourage lawful gun ownership.

Contention

Notable points of contention include debates over personal freedoms regarding gun ownership, the potential financial burden on responsible gun owners, and the implications for insurance companies in providing coverage. The discussion could further delve into how this bill aligns with broader national conversations regarding gun control and public safety measures, presenting a critical intersection of individual rights and community responsibility.

Companion Bills

TN SB2948

Crossfiled AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 38; Title 39; Title 47; Title 56 and Title 68, relative to firearm insurance.

Previously Filed As

TN SB2948

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 38; Title 39; Title 47; Title 56 and Title 68, relative to firearm insurance.

TN HB1587

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 47 and Title 68, relative to firearms.

TN SB2952

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 47 and Title 68, relative to firearms.

TN HB2752

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 10; Title 33; Title 36; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 49; Title 50 and Title 70, relative to firearms.

TN HB0430

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8; Title 10; Title 13; Title 16; Title 29; Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 47; Title 49; Title 50; Title 55; Title 58; Title 65; Title 68 and Title 70, relative to firearms.

TN SB0500

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8; Title 10; Title 13; Title 16; Title 29; Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 47; Title 49; Title 50; Title 55; Title 58; Title 65; Title 68 and Title 70, relative to firearms.

TN HB1580

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8; Title 10; Title 13; Title 16; Title 29; Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 47; Title 49; Title 50; Title 55; Title 58; Title 65; Title 68 and Title 70, relative to firearms.

TN SB1570

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8; Title 10; Title 13; Title 16; Title 29; Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 47; Title 49; Title 50; Title 55; Title 58; Title 65; Title 68 and Title 70, relative to firearms.

TN SB2456

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 38 and Title 39, relative to firearms.

TN HB2336

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 38 and Title 39, relative to firearms.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.