Tennessee Senate Bill SB2954

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 54; Title 39, Chapter 17 and Title 40, relative to ammunition magazines for firearms.

Impact

The bill outlines specific penalties for violations, which include a civil penalty not exceeding five thousand dollars for any individual who manufactures, transfers, or purchases such magazines. The law also stipulates that magazines obtained before July 1, 2023, will not be subject to these restrictions, thereby allowing existing owners to retain their devices legally. This enactment is intended to enhance public safety by limiting access to certain types of firearm accessories that are deemed to contribute to gun-related incidents.

Summary

Senate Bill 2954 seeks to amend several sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically concerning the regulation of detachable firearm ammunition magazines. The bill introduces a prohibition on the manufacture, transfer, or purchase of ammunition magazines that can hold more than ten rounds of ammunition within the state. This measure is aimed at reducing the capacity for rapid-fire capabilities in firearms, as a response to growing concerns over gun violence and the desire for stricter gun control measures in Tennessee.

Contention

As with many legislative initiatives related to gun regulation, SB2954 is expected to face contention from various stakeholders. Proponents of the bill argue that it is a necessary step to address gun violence, while opponents may view it as an infringement on Second Amendment rights. The discourse surrounding this bill is likely to engage local communities, firearm advocates, and public safety officials, highlighting the ongoing national debate regarding the balance between gun rights and public safety regulations.