Tennessee House Bill HB7071

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/18/23
• Refer: 8/22/23
• Refer: 8/23/23
• Engrossed: 8/25/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 38, relative to reporting of mass shootings.

Impact

The introduction of HB 7071 represents a significant step in addressing gun violence and the public safety concerns associated with mass shootings in Tennessee. By instituting a formal reporting mechanism, the state aims to create a clearer understanding of the prevalence of these incidents, which can inform policy decisions and preventive efforts. The bill's structure highlights the necessity for tracking such occurrences, which is crucial in developing appropriate responses and interventions aimed at mass shooting events.

Summary

House Bill 7071 is an act aimed at amending the Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 38, concerning the reporting of mass shootings. The bill mandates that the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation submit an annual report to the governor and legislative leaders beginning January 1, 2024. This report is required to include statistics on the number of mass shootings that occurred in the previous year, along with any other significant information that may aid in efforts to limit mass shootings. Defined within the bill, a mass shooting is an incident where four or more individuals, excluding the perpetrator, are either killed or significantly injured by a firearm in a public space, and not linked to other criminal activities or domestic violence incidents.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 7071 appears to be cautiously supportive among many legislators who acknowledge the growing concern over mass shootings across the nation. Proponents of the bill argue that improved data collection is essential for understanding and mitigating the factors contributing to mass shootings. However, there is also a contingent of skepticism regarding the effectiveness of mere reporting without corresponding legislative action or comprehensive strategies to address gun violence. This division reflects broader societal debates about gun control and individual rights.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 7071 include discussions about the adequacy of merely reporting mass shooting incidents without implementing broader gun control measures. Critics may argue that while data collection is vital, it is insufficient if not accompanied by effective policies to prevent such incidents. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the definition of mass shootings and how these incidents are categorized, which could affect the reported statistics and the perceived success of any forthcoming measures aimed at improving public safety.