Tennessee Senate Bill SB1183

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13, relative to firearms.

Summary

SB1183 would create a new firearms storage offense in Tennessee law. The bill makes it unlawful to store or keep a firearm unless it is secured in a locked container or equipped with a tamper-resistant mechanical lock or other safety device that is properly engaged so the firearm cannot be operated by anyone other than the owner or another authorized user. The measure includes an exception for firearms that are being carried by, or are otherwise under the control of, the owner or another lawful user. A violation of the new storage requirement would be a Class A misdemeanor. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and would be added to Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13 of the Tennessee Code Annotated, which addresses firearms-related offenses.

Impact

The bill would add a new criminal offense to Tennessee law focused on firearm storage and safe-keeping practices. It would affect gun owners, households with firearms, and anyone storing firearms in homes or other locations by requiring use of a locked container or an engaged safety device, unless the firearm is under the direct control of an authorized user. The legislation would expand state firearms regulation and create misdemeanor liability for noncompliance.

Sentiment

No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of debate or formal support/opposition in the available materials. Based on the text alone, the bill reflects a public-safety-oriented approach to firearm storage, suggesting an intent to reduce unauthorized access to guns.

Contention

The main point of contention likely concerns the balance between firearm safety and gun owners' rights. Supporters would likely emphasize preventing accidental shootings, theft, and unauthorized access, while opponents may object to the mandate as an intrusion on lawful gun ownership or question the practicality of enforcing storage requirements in private homes. Because no discussion transcripts or votes are included, specific legislators or stakeholder positions cannot be identified from the record provided.