Tennessee House Bill HB7114

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/21/23
• Refer: 8/24/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13, relative to the storage of firearms in motor vehicles.

Impact

If enacted, HB7114 could significantly alter current firearm storage practices in the state, imposing stricter regulations on how firearms can be stored in vehicles. This legislative move may contribute to decreased accidental access to firearms by unauthorized individuals or minors when left unattended in vehicles, potentially impacting safety and crime rates. Additionally, the bill reinforces the state’s commitment to gun safety while balancing individual rights under the Second Amendment.

Summary

House Bill 7114 proposes to amend the Tennessee Code regarding the storage of firearms in motor vehicles. The bill stipulates that firearms and ammunition must be stored out of ordinary observation when a person is in the vehicle. Moreover, if personal is not present, such items must either be kept from view and locked in the trunk, glove box, or a secure container affixed to the vehicle. This change is intended to enhance safety measures related to firearm storage in Tennessee.

Contention

While the bill aims to improve public safety, it could be a source of contention among gun rights advocates who may view these restrictions as an infringement on personal liberties. Critics might argue that such regulations could inadvertently lead to additional legal burdens for firearm owners, particularly those who carry firearms for personal protection. The discussions surrounding this bill are likely to engage various stakeholders, including gun rights organizations, law enforcement, and public safety advocates as they assess the implications of these proposed regulations.