Tennessee Senate Bill SB1852

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 29, Chapter 4; Title 37 and Title 39, relative to firearms offenses involving minors.

Impact

If enacted, SB1852 would categorize the sale, loan, or gifting of firearms to minors under these specified circumstances as a Class A misdemeanor. This classification represents a significant legal stance against facilitating firearm access to minors, thereby reinforcing existing laws designed to prevent such scenarios. Furthermore, individuals convicted under this new law could face civil liability for any criminal acts subsequently committed by the minor, creating an additional layer of responsibility and consequence for those attempting to circumvent existing regulations.

Summary

Senate Bill 1852 seeks to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated to specifically address firearms offenses involving minors. The bill introduces a provision that makes it an offense to knowingly sell, loan, or give a firearm to a minor with the intent of coercing or inducing the minor to commit an offense. This new section aims to deter the illegal transfer of firearms to minors, acknowledging the serious implications of such actions on community safety and minors' welfare.

Contention

The legislative discussions surrounding SB1852 are expected to raise notable points of contention, particularly among advocates for gun rights and those supporting stricter gun control measures. Proponents of the bill argue that it serves as a necessary step in safeguarding minors from potential harm associated with firearms. Critics, however, may contend that the bill could impose undue restrictions on responsible firearm ownership and might not effectively address the underlying issues concerning youth involvement in firearms-related offenses. The balance between individual rights and public safety remains a central theme in the debate over this bill.