Tennessee House Bill HB2505

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24
• Refer: 2/1/24
• Failed: 3/19/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 17, relative to firearm ammunition.

Impact

If enacted, HB2505 would affect retailers across Tennessee by introducing specific regulations on how ammunition is stored. The requirement for selling ammunition in an inaccessible area within retail stores would likely require establishments to modify their inventory layouts, which could incur additional costs for compliance. The bill aims to mitigate risks associated with unauthorized access to ammunition, contributing to the broader efforts in public safety and responsible firearm handling.

Summary

House Bill 2505 seeks to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 39, Chapter 17, which pertains to firearm ammunition regulations. The bill mandates that retailers and sellers of firearm ammunition must store the ammunition in areas that are not accessible to customers within retail establishments. This measure is intended to enhance safety protocols regarding the handling of firearms and ammunition by limiting customer access to potentially dangerous goods.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding HB2505 regarding its impact on business practices and the balance between gun rights and public safety. Opponents of strict storage regulations might argue that such measures could hinder the availability of ammunition to law-abiding citizens while proponents may emphasize the necessity of safety precautions to prevent accidents or illicit usage. The classification of violations as a Class A misdemeanor also underscores the seriousness of compliance with the law.

Implementation

The bill is proposed to take effect on January 1, 2025, which provides a transitional period for retailers to adjust to the new regulations before they are enforced. This timeline may influence discussions around the bill as stakeholders consider the implications of such changes and how it might affect their operations and customer interactions in the future.