Tennessee Senate Bill SB1729

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 36 and Title 39, Chapter 17, relative to stalking.

Impact

The enactment of SB1729 would modify existing laws concerning stalking in Tennessee. By specifically targeting the acquisition of semi-automatic rifles in the context of stalking offenses, the bill underscores the state's commitment to addressing domestic violence and enhancing public safety. The measure intends to prevent individuals with a history of stalking from obtaining weapons that could be used to further threaten their victims, thereby strengthening protective measures available to those at risk.

Summary

Senate Bill 1729 seeks to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated to address issues related to stalking. Specifically, it introduces a prohibition on the purchase or use of semi-automatic rifles by individuals engaged in stalking activities. The bill defines a semi-automatic rifle as a repeating rifle that uses the energy of a firing cartridge to chamber the next round and requires a separate trigger pull to fire each projectile. This legislative action aims to enhance the safety of potential stalking victims by restricting access to firearms for individuals who have demonstrated stalking behavior.

Contention

While SB1729 is aimed at improving safety for stalking victims, it may face criticism and debate surrounding Second Amendment rights. Proponents of gun rights could argue that the bill infringes on the rights of law-abiding citizens who possess semi-automatic rifles. Additionally, there may be concerns about the definitions used in the bill and how effectively they would be enforced. The delineation of stalking and the determination of when a person is deemed a stalking risk could also be points of contention during discussions and potential amendments to the bill.