AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13, relative to firearms.
This bill is set to have a significant impact on state laws regarding firearms, particularly the provisions of Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 17. By revising the existing rules around where and how firearms can be carried, the bill reflects a shift toward increased permissiveness in concealed carry regulations, thereby aligning state laws with advocates' calls for broader gun rights. The amendments seek to simplify and clarify the conditions under which firearms can be restricted, potentially inflating the volume of concealed carry permits issued and overall firearm ownership in Tennessee.
Senate Bill 1037 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning the regulations around firearms, particularly focusing on the possession of weapons in certain settings. The bill outlines that individuals, corporations, or entities are permitted to impose restrictions on weapons possession in locations they manage, including state and local government properties. It specifically authorizes the carrying of handguns in a concealed manner but limits this to individuals who are legally authorized to do so under specified code sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated.
Notable points of contention surrounding SB1037 include concerns from various advocacy groups regarding public safety and the implications of loosening restrictions on firearms possession. Critics argue that the bill may lead to increased risks in public spaces, particularly in educational and government settings where firearms could escalate conflicts. Supporters, however, argue that responsible gun ownership and the right to carry firearms openly contribute to personal safety and self-defense, advocating that regulatory measures should not infringe upon individual liberties.