Tennessee Senate Bill SB2199

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13, relative to firearms.

Impact

The implications of SB2199 are significant as it alters the existing statutes surrounding gun laws in Tennessee. The deletion of certain provisions could lead to a more permissive stance on handgun carrying, as the references to specific previous regulations are removed, which may simplify the process for individuals wishing to carry firearms. Additionally, this change could align Tennessee's laws more closely with current trends in gun legislation that prioritize individual ownership rights. Such amendments often incite discussion regarding public safety and the impacts on law enforcement policies, as well as their consequences on community crime rates.

Summary

Senate Bill 2199, sponsored by Senator Lamar, aims to amend certain provisions of the Tennessee Code Annotated relating to firearms, specifically in Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13. The bill proposes the removal of specific subsections pertaining to the carrying of handguns in the state. By deleting subsection (g) from Section 39-17-1307 and specific language from Section 39-17-1313(a), the bill seeks to revise the existing legal framework regarding lawful handgun carrying in Tennessee. What this amendment encapsulates is an intention to streamline the state's firearm laws, potentially affecting legal interpretations and the rights of citizens regarding handgun possession and carriage.

Contention

Discussion around SB2199 may bring to light opposing viewpoints regarding the impact of gun regulations on public safety. Critics of the bill may argue that loosening restrictions on firearm carriage could increase risks associated with gun violence, thereby undermining efforts to maintain public order. Proponents may contend that the bill promotes personal freedom and the right to bear arms, defending that responsible gun ownership can enhance safety. As the bill makes its way through legislative processes, debates will likely center on the balance between individual rights and community risks associated with firearm accessibility.