Tennessee House Bill HB2192

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/24
• Refer: 1/31/24

Caption

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

Impact

If enacted, HB2192 will significantly alter the current procedures for firearm transactions in Tennessee, introducing a new statutory requirement for gun dealers and purchasers alike. This waiting period could lead to a decrease in impulsive purchases of firearms, as potential buyers will have additional time to reconsider their decision, which proponents argue will contribute to public safety. The bill is part of broader state efforts to manage firearm regulations and address gun violence through preventive measures.

Summary

House Bill 2192 proposes amendments to the Tennessee Code Annotated regarding firearm transactions, specifically establishing a mandatory waiting period for purchasers. Under the new provisions, gun dealers are required to ensure that fourteen days pass from the initiation of a firearm sale transaction before the firearm can be transferred to the purchaser. This change aims to enhance regulations surrounding firearm transactions within the state, focusing on responsible gun ownership and sales practices.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2192 is mixed, with supporters hailing it as a necessary step towards better gun control and public safety, while opponents may view it as an unnecessary restriction on the rights of gun owners and purchasers. Supporters include various advocacy groups that emphasize the importance of responsible gun ownership and reducing gun-related incidents, while critics argue that such laws can infringe on personal freedoms.

Contention

Notable points of contention around HB2192 include the debate over Second Amendment rights and the effectiveness of waiting periods in reducing gun violence. Opponents often argue that waiting periods do little to prevent crime and disproportionately affect law-abiding citizens who may need immediate access to firearms for personal security. The bill has ignited discussions on the balance between regulatory measures and constitutional rights, framing it as a pivotal moment in the ongoing conversation about gun control in Tennessee.