Tennessee House Bill HB0977

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13; Title 49, Chapter 6 and Title 55, Chapter 10, relative to firearms.

Impact

The bill's amendments are expected to centralize regulations governing firearm possession in K-12 schools and ensure that specific conditions are met to avoid legal repercussions. It clarifies that a nonstudent adult may possess a firearm within a vehicle on school property as long as there is no handling of the firearm. This change seeks to offer a more structured approach to firearm laws within educational settings, potentially affecting how schools manage security and weapon policies.

Summary

House Bill 0977 aims to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to firearms, intricate with school safety regulations. The bill specifically addresses the possession and carrying of firearms and other weapons on school property, particularly for schools offering grades K-12. A notable change includes the designation of certain consequences, such as class E felonies and class B misdemeanors for unauthorized possession, emphasizing the importance of strict enforcement of these laws in educational environments.

Contention

Despite the bill's provisions designed to enhance safety, there is contention around its implications for students and the community at large. Opponents may argue that the presence of firearms, even among nonstudent adults, could contribute to an environment of fear or violence in schools. There remains a debate on whether such regulations adequately address safety concerns while respecting individual rights regarding firearms. Additionally, the bill excludes exemptions for firearms on college and university campuses, which may further galvanize discussions surrounding gun control in higher education contexts.