Tennessee House Bill HB0873

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/4/25
• Refer: 2/6/25
• Refer: 4/2/25
• Refer: 4/9/25
• Chaptered: 5/13/25
• Passed: 5/13/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 29, Chapter 42 and Title 39, relative to weapons.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the legal landscape surrounding firearms liability in Tennessee, potentially limiting the avenues through which victims of gun violence or misuse could seek redress in court. By setting the burden of proof on plaintiffs in qualified civil liability actions, it could lead to fewer successful lawsuits against gun manufacturers and sellers, which proponents argue is necessary to protect lawful businesses from frivolous claims. This shift might also embolden the firearms industry, possibly impacting public safety debates and discussions surrounding gun control.

Summary

House Bill 0873 aims to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to weapons, specifically targeting civil liability actions against manufacturers, dealers, and sellers of qualified products, which includes firearms. The bill establishes that individuals cannot bring civil liability actions based solely on the misuse of these products by third parties, thereby reinforcing the legal shield for the firearms industry against lawsuits that might arise from unlawful uses. The legislation seeks to align with the constitutional right to bear arms while ensuring a robust market for firearms and associated products.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB 0873 appears to be strongly supportive among gun rights advocates and industry representatives who view it as a necessary measure to safeguard Second Amendment rights. Conversely, opponents are likely to criticize it as an attempt to undermine accountability within the firearms industry, expressing concerns that it could exacerbate issues related to gun violence. This polarizing sentiment reflects broader national discussions about gun rights and regulation, where there is a stark divide between advocates for gun control and those supporting unfettered access to firearms.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 0873 include debates over public safety versus individual rights. Critics argue that shielding gun manufacturers from liability could discourage responsible business practices and weaken incentives to manufacture safer products. Additionally, there is concern that the protections offered in this bill could hinder efforts to address the consequences of firearm misuse and lead to further public harm. Therefore, the bill is positioned at the intersection of legislative action and societal impacts concerning gun ownership and safety within communities.