Tennessee Senate Bill SB7100

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/21/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, relative to the safe storage of firearms.

Impact

If enacted, SB7100 will result in changes to Tennessee's firearm regulations, particularly regarding safe storage practices. The requirement for firearm owners to report lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement is designed to create a more accountable and secure environment for gun ownership. By encouraging timely reporting, the legislation aims to assist in tracking firearms that may be misused in criminal activities, therefore potentially reducing the rate of gun-related incidents in the community.

Summary

Senate Bill 7100, proposed by Senator Akbari, aims to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, focusing specifically on the safe storage of firearms. The bill emphasizes that firearm owners or authorized users should ensure firearms are stored securely and recommends reporting any loss or theft of firearms to law enforcement within twenty-four hours of discovery. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance public safety by preventing unauthorized access to firearms, particularly by minors or individuals prohibited from possessing firearms.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support from advocates of gun safety, it may face opposition from certain groups who believe that it could impose undue burdens on responsible gun owners. There is concern that the reporting requirement may be seen as an infringement on personal liberties or could lead to unnecessary legal complications for individuals who may inadvertently misplace their firearms. Overall, the dialogue surrounding SB7100 highlights the ongoing debate over gun rights versus public safety in Tennessee.