Tennessee House Bill HB1981

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/24
• Refer: 1/25/24

Caption

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

Impact

If passed, HB1981 would expand the conditions under which an individual may be deemed ineligible to possess a firearm, thereby potentially affecting the rights of individuals convicted of specific crimes. This amendment signifies a shift in how the law views the relationship between stalking and firearm ownership, enhancing protections for potential victims of stalking and domestic violence. By integrating this legal stipulation into existing laws, it underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing the risks posed by individuals with a history of such offenses, thereby aiming to improve public safety.

Summary

House Bill 1981 is a legislative proposal aimed at modifying existing firearms regulations within the Tennessee Code Annotated. The bill primarily seeks to amend the stipulations concerning individuals who may be prohibited from possessing firearms due to criminal convictions, specifically targeting those with a conviction for stalking as outlined in § 39-17-315. This addition highlights a growing concern regarding the intersection of firearm possession and domestic violence, reflecting a responsive approach to firearms laws amidst rising calls for tighter restrictions on gun ownership for individuals with histories of violent behavior.

Contention

Notably, the bill may encounter opposition from individuals and organizations advocating for gun rights, who often argue against any measures that could be perceived as infringing on Second Amendment rights. Debates around this bill could revolve around concerns regarding due process and the implications of expanding prohibited categories for firearm possession, questioning whether such regulations might disproportionately affect certain populations. There may also be discussions focused on the effectiveness of such laws in actually preventing gun violence, as critics might call for more comprehensive approaches to address the underlying issues related to stalking and violence.

Implementation

Should HB1981 be enacted, the new provisions would come into force on July 1, 2024. This gives pertinent stakeholders, including law enforcement and the judicial system, time to adjust to the new regulations. Advocates for the bill may emphasize the necessity of training and public awareness campaigns to ensure that those affected understand the changes to firearm possession laws and the rationale behind these enhancements to societal safety.