Safer TN Tracker

A Marine’s mission

Our work is continually strengthened by our incredible volunteers. So far, dozens have joined us at the Capitol to observe committee hearings where firearm safety bills—including some deeply concerning ones—are being discussed.

This week, we spotlight volunteer Mat Pfeffer. [Watch his interview here.] Mat comes from a law enforcement family—his father was a New York City police officer. Gun safety was instilled in him from a young age, and as he climbed the ranks to Lieutenant Colonel in the Marine Corps, he always prioritized safety first.

Mat is a gun owner who practices secure storage: he locks his firearm separately from his ammunition and ensures that only he has access to it. He knows that too often, well-meaning people leave a gun out, leading to tragic accidents.

He has joined Safer TN at the Capitol multiple times and praised how easy the process was. With less than a month left in the legislative session, we need as many voices as possible. Can we count on seeing you there? If you’re interested in joining us, reach out to our wonderful volunteer coordinator—who will personally guide you through the process—at carolyn@safertn.org.

There are a number of committees this week that have critical firearms legislation before them.  While we have seen bills pretty regularly rolled to later hearing dates, committees are wrapping up their calendars and beginning to close, with the General Assembly looking to adjourn sometime in mid-April. We expect a number of firearm bills to be heard this week in House and Senate Judiciary Committees, as well as in the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee and Civil Justice Subcommittee. Up this week, there are several dangerous bills we are tracking, including: 

• HB1189/SB1227 – Allows for permit holders to openly carry loaded long guns
• HB478/SB441 – Removes penalties for carrying a firearm into a posted place of business
• HB883/SB914 – Lowers from 21 to 18 the age to allow permitless carry of handguns and for carry permits 

Other concerning bills we are tracking this week include that would lower the standard for the use of deadly force to protect property (HB856) and prohibit a healthcare provider from inquiring as to a patient’s firearm ownership or access (HB387). There is also a great piece of legislation that would make Glock switches illegal (HB1093) and criminalize threats of mass violence (HB1314). 

Read the full list of legislation we’re following below.  

Week of March 31^st – Committees and Bills We’re Tracking 

Monday, March 31:

Noon CT – Senate Judiciary Committee, Senate Hearing Room I, Agenda & Livestream

• 95. SB0819 by Roberts. (*HB0554 by Capley.) Remedies and Special Proceedings – Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 54. As introduced, creates a civil action against any person or government entity that infringes upon a person’s right to bear arms under the Tennessee or United States Constitutions; requires the person or entity to be liable for actual or statutory damages, punitive damages, attorney’s fees, and court costs.

Tuesday, April 1:

11am CT – House Criminal Justice Subcommittee, House Hearing Room II, Livestream
There are a number of firearm bills up in this committee, but we are tracking the below most closely. 

• 1. HB883 (Todd C.) – CRIMINAL LAW: Revocation or suspension of handgun carry permit – judicial review of DOS’ final determination.  Amendment Summary: House Criminal Justice Subcommittee amendment 1 (006054) revises the offense of carrying, with the intent to go armed, a firearm or a club, and separates the singular offense into individual new offenses of: (1) carrying, with the intent to go armed, a club; (2) carrying, for the purpose of employing as a weapon, a handgun, and; (3) carrying, for the purpose of employing as a weapon, a firearm other than a handgun. Establishes penalties for, and provides numerous exceptions to, these offenses. Revises the Class A misdemeanor offense for a person to possess a handgun while under the influence of an intoxicant such that it applies to possession of a firearm by a person under the influence, rather than a handgun. Lowers, from 21 to 18, the minimum age required for a person to obtain an enhanced, lifetime enhanced, and concealed handgun carry permit. Cosponsors: Rep. Davis, Elaine, Rep. Doggett, Clay, Rep. Garrett, Johnny, Rep. Grills, Rusty, Rep. Moon, Jerome, Rep. Zachary, Jason.  SB914 – P. Bailey.
• 31. HB1027 (Russell, L.) CRIMINAL LAW: Information provided by sheriff to DOS regarding application for an enhanced handgun carry permit. Increases, from 30 to 45, the number of days a sheriff has to provide the department of safety with any information that is within the knowledge of the sheriff concerning an applicant’s truthfulness on an application for an enhanced handgun carry permit. Broadly captioned. Amendment summary: Creates a grant program for eligible agencies to improve strategies and initiatives aimed at increasing violent crime clearance rates and to support victims of violent crime.

1:30pm CT – House Health Committee, House Hearing Room I, Agenda & Livestream

• 6. HB0387 by Butler. (SB0474 by Bowling.) Prohibits a healthcare provider from inquiring as to a patient’s ownership of firearm ammunition. Medical Occupations – Amends TCA Title 63 and Title 68. As introduced, prohibits a healthcare provider from inquiring as to a patient’s ownership, possession of, or access to firearm ammunition or firearm accessories; subjects the healthcare provider to disciplinary action and a fine of $1,000 if the healthcare provider makes such inquires.  

o   This bill has been deferred to 2026 in the Senate, so it doesn’t have a path to enactment this session.

2:30pm CT – Senate Judiciary Committee, Senate Hearing Room I, Agenda & Livestream

• 3. *SB1075 by Johnson. (HB1093 by Sexton.) Safety, Dept. of – Amends TCA Title 39 and Title 40. As introduced, extends, from 10 to 15 days, the amount of written notice of the hearing date and time the department must provide to a person requesting a hearing on the department’s suspension or revocation of the person’s handgun carry permit. The Abstract summarizes SB1075 as introduced.
• 4. SB1082 by Johnson. (*HB0578 by Doggett.) Criminal Offenses – Amends TCA Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13. As introduced, adds certain criminal offenses to the list of dangerous felonies for purposes of the offense of possessing a firearm or antique firearm during commission or attempt to commit a dangerous felony.
• 7. *SB1296 by Johnson. (HB1314 by Lamberth.) Criminal Offenses – Amends TCA Title 39, Chapter 13, Part 8 and Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 3. As introduced, creates the criminal offense of threatening to commit an act of mass violence; creates the criminal offense of posting on a publicly accessible website the telephone number or home address of an individual with the intent to cause harm or a threat of harm to the individual or a member of the individual’s family or household.
• 16. *SB1244 by Massey. (HB1210 by Keisling.) Firearms and Ammunition – Amends TCA Title 36, Chapter 3, Part 6. As introduced, requires, if the respondent on an order of protection dispossesses firearms by transferring possession to a third party who is not prohibited from possessing firearms, the respondent to specify the third party and the physical address where all firearms are located on the affidavit of firearms dispossession form; requires the third party to sign the affidavit of firearms dispossession form to acknowledge receipt of the firearms.
• 24. *SB0441 by Bailey. (HB0478 by Butler.) Firearms and Ammunition – Amends TCA Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13. As introduced, specifies that a person does not commit an offense if the person possesses or carries a firearm into an area that is posted if, upon the request of an individual authorized to control access to the property, the person immediately leaves the property or stores the firearm in a personal vehicle in accordance with state law.
• 25. SB914 by Bailey P. (HB883 by Todd C.) – CRIMINAL LAW: Revocation or suspension of handgun carry permit – judicial review of DOS’ final determination.  Amendment Summary: House Criminal Justice Subcommittee amendment 1 (006054) revises the offense of carrying, with the intent to go armed, a firearm or a club, and separates the singular offense into individual new offenses of: (1) carrying, with the intent to go armed, a club; (2) carrying, for the purpose of employing as a weapon, a handgun, and; (3) carrying, for the purpose of employing as a weapon, a firearm other than a handgun. Establishes penalties for, and provides numerous exceptions to, these offenses. Revises the Class A misdemeanor offense for a person to possess a handgun while under the influence of an intoxicant such that it applies to possession of a firearm by a person under the influence, rather than a handgun. Lowers, from 21 to 18, the minimum age required for a person to obtain an enhanced, lifetime enhanced, and concealed handgun carry permit.
•  31. SB1360 by Hensley. (*HB0873 by Fritts.) Remedies and Special Proceedings – Amends TCA Title 29, Chapter 42 and Title 39. As introduced, removes the ability to bring a civil liability action for negligence per se against a seller of a qualified product; expands “qualified products” to include knives, body armor, pepper spray, silencers, and other certain products; requires physical injury for a negligent entrustment action rather than an unreasonable risk of physical injury; specifies that a person who will be subject to an ordinance in the future or reasonably intends to be physically present in the political subdivision is an adversely affected party for purposes of filing certain actions; makes various other changes regarding civil actions against arms dealers, manufacturers, and sellers and the preemption of local regulation of firearms.
• 32. SB1407 by Hensley. (*HB0856 by Capley.) Firearms and Ammunition – Amends TCA Title 39. As introduced, lowers the standard for the use of deadly force to protect property; specifies that deadly force does not include the display of a weapon, the brandishing of a weapon, or the use of force in circumstances that do not result in death or serious bodily injury.
•  39. *SB0379 by Walley. (HB0514 by Gillespie.) Firearms and Ammunition – Amends TCA Title 37; Title 38; Title 39 and Title 40. As introduced, requires TACIR to perform a study on the impact of this state’s firearm laws on each county’s firearm sales, criminal offenses, and use of firearms for self-defense, as well as identifying the similarities and dissimilarities between the impacts on each county.
• 43. *SB1227 by Lowe. (HB1189 by Grills.) Firearms and Ammunition – Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 7; Title 8; Title 10; Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 49; Title 50; Title 57; Title 67; Title 68 and Title 70. As introduced, renames enhanced and concealed handgun carry permits as enhanced and concealed firearm carry permits and authorizes a permit holder to carry any firearms, rather than handguns, that the permit holder legally owns or possesses.
• 44. *SB0963 by Hatcher. (HB1177 by Williams.) Criminal Procedure – Amends TCA Title 33; Title 40 and Title 52. As introduced, removes the requirement that any misdemeanor charges against a person found incompetent to stand trial due to mental illness or developmental disability must be retired within 11 months, 29 days after the date of arrest.
• 53. SB1191 by Akbari. (*HB0947 by Brooks.) Firearms and Ammunition – Amends TCA Title 33 and Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13. As introduced, enacts “Akilah’s Law,” which creates the offense of selling, offering to sell, delivering, or transferring a firearm to a person knowing the person has been a patient in a mental institution at any time within the previous five years.

Wednesday, April 2:

9am CT – House Criminal Justice Subcommittee, House Hearing Room II, Livestream

·   Will continue working through bills from Tuesday’s calendar.

 11am CT – House Finance, Ways & Means Subcommittee, Housing Hearing Room III, Agenda & Livestream

• 49. HB1314 by Lamberth. (*SB1296 by Johnson.) Criminal offenses for threatening to commit an act of mass violence and posting an individual’s number or address. Criminal Offenses – Amends TCA Title 39, Chapter 13, Part 8 and Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 3. As introduced, creates the criminal offense of threatening to commit an act of mass violence; creates the criminal offense of posting on a publicly accessible website the telephone number or home address of an individual with the intent to cause harm or a threat of harm to the individual or a member of the individual’s family or household.
• 59. HB1177 by Williams. (*SB0963 by Hatcher.) Criminal Procedure – Amends TCA Title 33; Title 40 and Title 52. As introduced, removes the requirement that any misdemeanor charges against a person found incompetent to stand trial due to mental illness or developmental disability must be retired within 11 months, 29 days after the date of arrest.

11am CT – House Judiciary Committee, House Hearing Room I, Agenda & Livestream

• 48. HB1189 by Grills. (*SB1227 by Lowe.) Firearms and Ammunition – Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 7; Title 8; Title 10; Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 49; Title 50; Title 57; Title 67; Title 68 and Title 70. As introduced, renames enhanced and concealed handgun carry permits as enhanced and concealed firearm carry permits and authorizes a permit holder to carry any firearms, rather than handguns, that the permit holder legally owns or possesses.
• 50. *HJR0053 by Reedy. Constitutional Amendments – Proposes an amendment to Article I, Section 26 of the Constitution of Tennessee to remove the provision that authorizes the legislature to regulate the wearing of arms with a view to prevent crime and to clarify that citizens have a right to keep and bear arms.
• 52. HB 0478 *Butler, McCalmon, Doggett, Capley, Slater, Powers, Scarbrough, Atchley, Barrett, Moody, Hulsey, Eldridge, Reedy, Hurt, Reneau, Keisling, Hill, Martin B, Grills, Reeves (SB 0441 by *Bailey) Firearms and Ammunition – As introduced, specifies that a person does not commit an offense if the person possesses or carries a firearm into an area that is posted if, upon the request of an individual authorized to control access to the property, the person immediately leaves the property or stores the firearm in a personal vehicle in accordance with state law. – Amends TCA Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13. Amendment Summary: House Criminal Justice Subcommittee amendment 1 (006353) revises the offense of possessing a weapon on property that is properly posted to prohibit such possession such that the offense only applies if the individual intentionally or knowingly possessed the weapon where not authorized. Creates an affirmative defense to prosecution for the offense if, upon the request of an individual authorized to control access to the property, the individual immediately leaves the property or stores the firearm in a personal vehicle in accordance with state law.
•  53. HB0856 by Capley. (SB1407 by Hensley.) CRIMINAL LAW: Lowers the standard for the use of deadly force to protect property. Lowers the standard for the use of deadly force to protect property. Specifies that deadly force does not include the display of a weapon, the brandishing of a weapon, or the use of force in circumstances that do not result in death or serious bodily injury. House Status: 03/19/25 – Set for House Criminal Justice Subcommittee. Cosponsors: Rep. Crawford, John, Rep. Doggett, Clay, Rep. Fritts, Monty, Rep. Garrett, Johnny , Rep. Grills, Rusty, Rep. Martin, Brock, Rep. McCalmon, Jake, Rep. Moody, Debra, Rep. Powers, Dennis, Rep. Reeves, Lee, Rep. Rudd, Tim , Rep. Stinnett, Tom, Rep. Todd, Chris, Rep. Zachary, Jason. SB1407 – J. Hensley – 02/10/25 – Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee.
• 57. *HB0947 by Brooks. (SB1191 by Akbari.) Firearms and Ammunition – Amends TCA Title 33 and Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13. As introduced, enacts “Akilah’s Law,” which creates the offense of selling, offering to sell, delivering, or transferring a firearm to a person knowing the person has been a patient in a mental institution at any time within the previous five years.

1:30pm CT – House Civil Justice Subcommittee, House Hearing Room II, Agenda & Livestream

• *HB0873 by Fritts. (SB1360 by Hensley.) Remedies and Special Proceedings – Amends TCA Title 29, Chapter 42 and Title 39. As introduced, removes the ability to bring a civil liability action for negligence per se against a seller of a qualified product; expands “qualified products” to include knives, body armor, pepper spray, silencers, and other certain products; requires physical injury for a negligent entrustment action rather than an unreasonable risk of physical injury; specifies that a person who will be subject to an ordinance in the future or reasonably intends to be physically present in the political subdivision is an adversely affected party for purposes of filing certain actions; makes various other changes regarding civil actions against arms dealers, manufacturers, and sellers and the preemption of local regulation of firearms.
• HB1210 by Keisling. (*SB1244 by Massey.) Firearms and Ammunition – Amends TCA Title 36, Chapter 3, Part 6. As introduced, requires, if the respondent on an order of protection dispossesses firearms by transferring possession to a third party who is not prohibited from possessing firearms, the respondent to specify the third party and the physical address where all firearms are located on the affidavit of firearms dispossession form; requires the third party to sign the affidavit of firearms dispossession form to acknowledge receipt of the firearms.

2pm CT – Senate Judiciary Committee, Senate Hearing Room I, Agenda & Livestream

·   Will continue working through bills from Tuesday’s calendar.

High court rules in favor of federal oversight on ghost guns

The Supreme Court ruled 7-2 Wednesday to uphold a regulation allowing the ATF to regulate ghost guns—untraceable firearms assembled from kits—affirming that these firearm assembly kits need to fall under the same regulations as standard firearms, including requirements for serial numbers and background checks for purchasers.

Justice Neil Gorsuch, joined by the liberal justices and three conservatives, wrote that weapons designed to function as firearms or easily converted into them fall under federal gun laws. The decision follows a reported surge in ghost gun-related crimes, with law enforcement recovering over 27,000 in 2023, according to CNN. While the ruling affirms the ATF’s authority, a future administration could repeal the rule. Firearm safety advocates hailed the decision as a major victory for public safety, while opponents vowed to continue legal battles over firearm regulations. Read the article here.

‘Defend yourself’: the Memphis gun club educating Black women and children on firearm safety

Mass shooting suspect was out on bond at time of shooting, records show (FOX13 Memphis)

Tennessee gun safety bill inspired by Waffle House shooting victim passes first House hurdle (WKRN Nashville)

‘An innocent victim.’ A mom’s ‘purpose’ through son’s unsolved Murfreesboro shooting death (The Tennessean)

2 Chattanooga teens charged with shooting woman on Foust Street (Newschannel 9)

Owner seeks answers after dog shot with pellet gun in Bordeaux park (WKRN Nashville)

TMZ video shows moments Sauce Walka, Sayso P were shot in Downtown Memphis (FOX13)

Knoxville group calling for change after 16-year-old shot, killed (WVLT)

Man in Franklin shooting on West Main Street claimed self-defense (Newschannel 5 Nashville)

How You Can Help on the Two-Year Anniversary of Covenant

We are amplifying the voices of Tennesseans who want safer futures for our families and loved ones. Your voice matters, and your engagement can make a difference.

Visit safertn.org/covenant to send a postcard or make a phone call urging lawmakers to prioritize firearm safety. We’ve made it easy—our website provides ready-to-use scripts, contact information, and guidance so you can take action in just a few minutes.

This work is urgent. This work is necessary. Together, we can build a safer Tennessee.

Spreading the Message: Engaging Civic and Community Leaders

Todd Cruse, Safer TN Board Chair, Mark Boyd, Good Morning Rotary of Dickson President, and Angela Redden, Good Morning Rotary of Dickson member and Safer TN Coalition Growth Committee member. 

Last week, representatives from Safer TN met with Rotary Clubs in Hendersonville and Dickson, as well as the DuPont Elementary School PTO in Old Hickory, to discuss the urgent need for firearm safety measures, including greater education, in Tennessee. These conversations are a critical part of our outreach, as civic organizations bring together respected community leaders who have the power to inform and influence change.

By providing fact-based information and data-driven policy solutions, we empower these local leaders to become advocates for safer communities. When engaged, they help amplify our message, bringing firearm safety discussions into broader public conversations and ensuring that more Tennesseans understand both the scope of the crisis and the pragmatic steps we can take to address it.

We want to keep expanding these efforts. If you’re a member of a Rotary, Kiwanis, PTO, League of Women Voters, or another civic organization, we’d love to meet with your group and share how we can work together for a safer Tennessee.

To schedule a presentation, contact Emily at emily@safertn.org. Let’s continue building momentum and engaging more voices in this important movement!

There are a number of committees this week that have critical firearms legislation before them.  While we have seen bills pretty regularly rolled to later hearing dates, Wednesday is the Tennessee Firearms Association’s day on the hill so we know some firearm legislation will see action that day. The House Civil Justice Subcommittee hearing at 1:30pm on Wednesday is specifically a gun legislation calendar.

Up this week, we are closely tracking dangerous legislation (HB478) that would make our communities less safe by removing penalties for carrying a firearm into posted places of business – including restaurants, bars, hospitals and airports. This undercuts posting laws and infringes on private property rights. 

Other bills we are tracking this week include concerning bills that would lower the standard for the use of deadly force to protect property (HB856) and prohibit a healthcare provider from inquiring as to a patient’s firearm ownership or access (HB387), as well as smart legislation that would make glock switches illegal (HB1093) and criminalize threats of mass violence (HB1314).  Read the full list of legislation we’re following below.  

Week of March 24^th – Committees and Bills We’re Tracking

Monday, March 24:

12:00pm – Senate Judiciary Committee, Senate Hearing Rm I, Agenda & Livestream

• 8. SB0944 by Massey. (HB1089 by Sexton.) Criminal Offenses – Amends TCA Title 33; Title 39 and Title 40. As amended, House Criminal Justice Subcommittee amendment 1 (004598) requires the court to order a person convicted of domestic assault, child abuse, child neglect or endangerment, aggravated child abuse, aggravated child neglect or endangerment, cruelty to animals, or aggravated cruelty to animals to undergo a mental health evaluation conducted by a specific licensed healthcare professional designated by the court.
• 11. *SB0222 by Jackson. (HB1027 by Russell.) Criminal Procedure – Amends TCA Title 38; Title 39 and Title 40. As introduced, increases, from 30 to 45, the number of days a sheriff has to provide the department of safety with any information that is within the knowledge of the sheriff concerning an applicant’s truthfulness on an application for an enhanced handgun carry permit.
• 17. SB1360 by Hensley. (*HB0873 by Fritts.)  Civil actions against arms dealers, manufacturers, and sellers. Remedies and Special Proceedings – Amends TCA Title 29, Chapter 42 and Title 39. As introduced, removes the ability to bring a civil liability action for negligence per se against a seller of a qualified product; expands “qualified products” to include knives, body armor, pepper spray, silencers, and other certain products; requires physical injury for a negligent entrustment action rather than an unreasonable risk of physical injury; specifies that a person who will be subject to an ordinance in the future or reasonably intends to be physically present in the political subdivision is an adversely affected party for purposes of filing certain actions; makes various other changes regarding civil actions against arms dealers, manufacturers, and sellers and the preemption of local regulation of firearms.

Tuesday, March 25:

12 pm – House Criminal Justice Subcommittee, House Hearing Room III, Agenda & Livestream

• 3. HB883 (Todd C.) – CRIMINAL LAW: Revocation or suspension of handgun carry permit – judicial review of DOS’ final determination. Extends the time, from 30 to 45 days, within which a person whose handgun carry permit has been suspended or revoked may petition the chancery court for judicial review of the department of safety’s final determination. Broadly captioned. Fiscal Note: (Dated February 11, 2025) NOT SIGNIFICANT Senate Status: 02/12/25 – Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee. House Status: 03/19/25 – Set for House Criminal Justice Subcommittee 03/26/25. Cosponsors: Rep. Davis, Elaine, Rep. Doggett, Clay, Rep. Garrett, Johnny , Rep. Grills, Rusty, Rep. Moon, Jerome, Rep. Zachary, Jason SB914 – P. Bailey – 02/12/25 – Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee.
• 12. HB0856 by Capley. (SB1407 by Hensley.) CRIMINAL LAW: Lowers the standard for the use of deadly force to protect property. Lowers the standard for the use of deadly force to protect property. Specifies that deadly force does not include the display of a weapon, the brandishing of a weapon, or the use of force in circumstances that do not result in death or serious bodily injury. House Status: 03/19/25 – Set for House Criminal Justice Subcommittee 03/26/25. Cosponsors: Rep. Crawford, John, Rep. Doggett, Clay, Rep. Fritts, Monty, Rep. Garrett, Johnny , Rep. Grills, Rusty, Rep. Martin, Brock, Rep. McCalmon, Jake, Rep. Moody, Debra, Rep. Powers, Dennis, Rep. Reeves, Lee, Rep. Rudd, Tim , Rep. Stinnett, Tom, Rep. Todd, Chris, Rep. Zachary, Jason. SB1407 – J. Hensley – 02/10/25 – Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee.
• 13. HB985 (Warner, T.) – CRIMINAL LAW: Offense of possession of a weapon in a building or on property that is properly posted. Removes the criminal offense of possession of a weapon in a building or on property that is properly posted. Removes the requirement that the department of safety suspend or revoke a handgun carry permit for a violation of that offense by a handgun permit holder. Senate Status: 02/12/25 – Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee. House Status: 03/19/25 – Set for House Criminal Justice Subcommittee 03/26/25. Cosponsors: Rep. Barrett, Jody.  SB824 – J. Hensley – 02/12/25 – Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee.
• 50. HB1027 (Russell, L.) CRIMINAL LAW: Information provided by sheriff to DOS regarding application for an enhanced handgun carry permit. Increases, from 30 to 45, the number of days a sheriff has to provide the department of safety with any information that is within the knowledge of the sheriff concerning an applicant’s truthfulness on an application for an enhanced handgun carry permit. Broadly captioned. Fiscal Note: (Dated January 24, 2025) NOT SIGNIFICANT Senate Status: 03/19/25 – Set for Senate Judiciary Committee 03/25/25. House Status: 03/19/25 – Set for House Criminal Justice Subcommittee 03/26/25. SB222 – E. Jackson – 03/19/25 – Set for Senate Judiciary Committee 03/25/25.

Addressing Domestic Violence and Firearm Safety in Tennessee

Newly released data from Tennessee’s Violent Death Reporting System reveals a troubling reality: in 2022, nearly 200 Tennesseans lost their lives to homicide or suicide following violence or conflict in their intimate partner relationships. The vast majority of these deaths involved a firearm.

The data exposes critical trends related to age, gender, and location, reinforcing the urgent need for stronger protections for domestic violence survivors. When an abuser has access to a firearm, the risk of homicide increases significantly—making policy solutions even more essential.

The data also reveals key trends:

• Victims of intimate partner-related deaths tend to be older than those in other violent death cases.
• More women than men were killed in intimate partner homicides. Homicide remains the #1 cause of death for pregnant or postpartum women.
• In cases of suicide, more men died than women.
• Nearly 30 children were present during these tragedies.

We are closely monitoring HB 1210, a bill that would strengthen accountability for domestic abusers by requiring them to name the person receiving their relinquished firearms and have that individual sign a court-ordered form.

This measure is modeled after a successful policy in Scott County, where domestic homicides and suicides have decreased since its implementation. Tennessee is one of 19 states that allow third-party firearm dispossession, but only one of two that does not require the recipient to be identified.

Tell your lawmakers you support HB 1210. Urge them to take action to protect survivors and prevent future tragedies.

Memphis Police Investigative Shooting Outside FedEx Forum (Fox13)

Youth Gun Deaths in the U.S. Have Surged by 50% since 2019 (Tennessee Lookout)

Teen killed in Knoxville shooting (WATE)

Juvenile charged in Dyer County murder (WREG Memphis)

Shooting in Elizabethton Dollar Tree parking lot under investigation (WYCB Tri-Cities)

How You Can Help on the Two-Year Anniversary of Covenant

We are amplifying the voices of Tennesseans who want safer futures for our families and loved ones. Your voice matters, and your engagement can make a difference.

Visit safertn.org/covenant to send a postcard or make a phone call urging lawmakers to prioritize firearm safety. We’ve made it easy—our website provides ready-to-use scripts, contact information, and guidance so you can take action in just a few minutes.

This work is urgent. This work is necessary. Together, we can build a safer Tennessee.

Spreading the Message: Engaging Civic and Community Leaders

Last week, representatives from Safer TN met with Rotary Clubs in Hendersonville and Dickson, as well as the DuPont Elementary School PTO in Old Hickory, to discuss the urgent need for firearm safety measures, including greater education, in Tennessee. These conversations are a critical part of our outreach, as civic organizations bring together respected community leaders who have the power to inform and influence change.

By providing fact-based information and data-driven policy solutions, we empower these local leaders to become advocates for safer communities. When engaged, they help amplify our message, bringing firearm safety discussions into broader public conversations and ensuring that more Tennesseans understand both the scope of the crisis and the pragmatic steps we can take to address it.

We want to keep expanding these efforts. If you’re a member of a Rotary, Kiwanis, PTO, League of Women Voters, or another civic organization, we’d love to meet with your group and share how we can work together for a safer Tennessee.

To schedule a presentation, contact Emily at emily@safertn.org. Let’s continue building momentum and engaging more voices in this important movement!

There are a number of committees this week that have critical firearms legislation before them.  While we have seen bills pretty regularly rolled to later hearing dates, Wednesday is the Tennessee Firearms Association’s day on the hill so we know some firearm legislation will see action that day. The House Civil Justice Subcommittee hearing at 1:30pm on Wednesday is specifically a gun legislation calendar.

Up this week, we are closely tracking dangerous legislation (HB478) that would make our communities less safe by removing penalties for carrying a firearm into posted places of business – including restaurants, bars, hospitals and airports. This undercuts posting laws and infringes on private property rights. 

Other bills we are tracking this week include concerning bills that would lower the standard for the use of deadly force to protect property (HB856) and prohibit a healthcare provider from inquiring as to a patient’s firearm ownership or access (HB387), as well as smart legislation that would make glock switches illegal (HB1093) and criminalize threats of mass violence (HB1314).  Read the full list of legislation we’re following below.  

Week of March 24^th – Committees and Bills We’re Tracking

Monday, March 24:

12:00pm – Senate Judiciary Committee, Senate Hearing Rm I, Agenda & Livestream

• 8. SB0944 by Massey. (HB1089 by Sexton.) Criminal Offenses – Amends TCA Title 33; Title 39 and Title 40. As amended, House Criminal Justice Subcommittee amendment 1 (004598) requires the court to order a person convicted of domestic assault, child abuse, child neglect or endangerment, aggravated child abuse, aggravated child neglect or endangerment, cruelty to animals, or aggravated cruelty to animals to undergo a mental health evaluation conducted by a specific licensed healthcare professional designated by the court.
• 11. *SB0222 by Jackson. (HB1027 by Russell.) Criminal Procedure – Amends TCA Title 38; Title 39 and Title 40. As introduced, increases, from 30 to 45, the number of days a sheriff has to provide the department of safety with any information that is within the knowledge of the sheriff concerning an applicant’s truthfulness on an application for an enhanced handgun carry permit.
• 17. SB1360 by Hensley. (*HB0873 by Fritts.)  Civil actions against arms dealers, manufacturers, and sellers. Remedies and Special Proceedings – Amends TCA Title 29, Chapter 42 and Title 39. As introduced, removes the ability to bring a civil liability action for negligence per se against a seller of a qualified product; expands “qualified products” to include knives, body armor, pepper spray, silencers, and other certain products; requires physical injury for a negligent entrustment action rather than an unreasonable risk of physical injury; specifies that a person who will be subject to an ordinance in the future or reasonably intends to be physically present in the political subdivision is an adversely affected party for purposes of filing certain actions; makes various other changes regarding civil actions against arms dealers, manufacturers, and sellers and the preemption of local regulation of firearms.

Tuesday, March 25:

12 pm – House Criminal Justice Subcommittee, House Hearing Room III, Agenda & Livestream

• 3. HB883 (Todd C.) – CRIMINAL LAW: Revocation or suspension of handgun carry permit – judicial review of DOS’ final determination. Extends the time, from 30 to 45 days, within which a person whose handgun carry permit has been suspended or revoked may petition the chancery court for judicial review of the department of safety’s final determination. Broadly captioned. Fiscal Note: (Dated February 11, 2025) NOT SIGNIFICANT Senate Status: 02/12/25 – Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee. House Status: 03/19/25 – Set for House Criminal Justice Subcommittee 03/26/25. Cosponsors: Rep. Davis, Elaine, Rep. Doggett, Clay, Rep. Garrett, Johnny , Rep. Grills, Rusty, Rep. Moon, Jerome, Rep. Zachary, Jason SB914 – P. Bailey – 02/12/25 – Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee.
• 12. HB0856 by Capley. (SB1407 by Hensley.) CRIMINAL LAW: Lowers the standard for the use of deadly force to protect property. Lowers the standard for the use of deadly force to protect property. Specifies that deadly force does not include the display of a weapon, the brandishing of a weapon, or the use of force in circumstances that do not result in death or serious bodily injury. House Status: 03/19/25 – Set for House Criminal Justice Subcommittee 03/26/25. Cosponsors: Rep. Crawford, John, Rep. Doggett, Clay, Rep. Fritts, Monty, Rep. Garrett, Johnny , Rep. Grills, Rusty, Rep. Martin, Brock, Rep. McCalmon, Jake, Rep. Moody, Debra, Rep. Powers, Dennis, Rep. Reeves, Lee, Rep. Rudd, Tim , Rep. Stinnett, Tom, Rep. Todd, Chris, Rep. Zachary, Jason. SB1407 – J. Hensley – 02/10/25 – Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee.
• 13. HB985 (Warner, T.) – CRIMINAL LAW: Offense of possession of a weapon in a building or on property that is properly posted. Removes the criminal offense of possession of a weapon in a building or on property that is properly posted. Removes the requirement that the department of safety suspend or revoke a handgun carry permit for a violation of that offense by a handgun permit holder. Senate Status: 02/12/25 – Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee. House Status: 03/19/25 – Set for House Criminal Justice Subcommittee 03/26/25. Cosponsors: Rep. Barrett, Jody.  SB824 – J. Hensley – 02/12/25 – Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee.
• 50. HB1027 (Russell, L.) CRIMINAL LAW: Information provided by sheriff to DOS regarding application for an enhanced handgun carry permit. Increases, from 30 to 45, the number of days a sheriff has to provide the department of safety with any information that is within the knowledge of the sheriff concerning an applicant’s truthfulness on an application for an enhanced handgun carry permit. Broadly captioned. Fiscal Note: (Dated January 24, 2025) NOT SIGNIFICANT Senate Status: 03/19/25 – Set for Senate Judiciary Committee 03/25/25. House Status: 03/19/25 – Set for House Criminal Justice Subcommittee 03/26/25. SB222 – E. Jackson – 03/19/25 – Set for Senate Judiciary Committee 03/25/25.

Addressing Domestic Violence and Firearm Safety in Tennessee

Newly released data from Tennessee’s Violent Death Reporting System reveals a troubling reality: in 2022, nearly 200 Tennesseans lost their lives to homicide or suicide following violence or conflict in their intimate partner relationships. The vast majority of these deaths involved a firearm.

The data exposes critical trends related to age, gender, and location, reinforcing the urgent need for stronger protections for domestic violence survivors. When an abuser has access to a firearm, the risk of homicide increases significantly—making policy solutions even more essential.

The data also reveals key trends:

• Victims of intimate partner-related deaths tend to be older than those in other violent death cases.
• More women than men were killed in intimate partner homicides. Homicide remains the #1 cause of death for pregnant or postpartum women.
• In cases of suicide, more men died than women.
• Nearly 30 children were present during these tragedies.

We are closely monitoring HB 1210, a bill that would strengthen accountability for domestic abusers by requiring them to name the person receiving their relinquished firearms and have that individual sign a court-ordered form.

This measure is modeled after a successful policy in Scott County, where domestic homicides and suicides have decreased since its implementation. Tennessee is one of 19 states that allow third-party firearm dispossession, but only one of two that does not require the recipient to be identified.

Tell your lawmakers you support HB 1210. Urge them to take action to protect survivors and prevent future tragedies.

Children’s Hospital Association examines firearm deaths threatening kids in America—and the efforts to address them.

Each day, an average of seven American youths die from firearm injuries, and for every child death, an average of 2.5 nonfatal firearm injuries occur. These injuries are often life-altering, with 720 survivors qualifying for disability status each year. Homicide is the leading cause of firearm deaths for youth of all ages, while suicide is the second leading cause for teenagers, and unintentional shootings are the second leading cause for toddlers and preschoolers. 

Secure firearm storage, such as keeping firearms and ammunition stored separately, has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of self-inflicted and unintentional firearm injuries in children. Despite these risks, the majority of firearm suicides involve firearms accessed from the home. In addition, significant racial disparities exist, with Black and Hispanic/Latino youth being disproportionately affected by firearm injuries and deaths.

Key findings from the report:

• Firearms and Youth Suicide
  • Firearms accounted for 43% of adolescent suicide deaths between 2001-2019.
  • The number of adolescent suicide deaths involving firearms increased by 40% since 2013.
  • 90% of youth who die by firearm suicide access the firearm in their own home or a relative’s home.
• Importance of Secure Firearm Storage
  • Just as families lock up medications and install fences around pools, secure firearm storage is a key component of childproofing.
  • Children are naturally curious—even toddlers can pull a firearm’s trigger.
• Racial Disparities in Firearm Injuries & Deaths
  • Black youth are approximately six times more likely to die from firearm injuries than their white peers.
  • From 2013 to 2022, the firearm death rate among Hispanic/Latino youth increased twice as much as their white peers.
  • Studies show that poverty is associated with higher rates of firearm homicides and suicides.
• Reducing the Risk of Firearm Injuries & Deaths: To prevent firearm-related injuries and deaths, it is essential to address multiple risk factors:
  • Physical risks – Loaded and unsecured firearms.
  • Psychosocial risks – Prior exposure to violence or trauma.
  • Economic and structural risks – Experiencing poverty and lack of resources.
• Hospital-Based Firearm Injury Prevention Efforts
  • 92% of children’s hospitals surveyed (35 out of 38) reported safety interventions such as:
    • Counseling on secure firearm storage.
    • Distributing firearm storage devices to families.
  • Secure firearm storage counseling is an essential part of childproofing a home.
    • Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt expanded its distribution of firearm cable locks beyond behavioral health settings.
    • Inspired by Dr. Lindsay Clukies’ work at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, Vanderbilt placed firearm cable locks in clear boxes with multilingual signage and QR codes linking to injury prevention resources and Be SMART materials.
• Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Programs (HVIPs)
  • 18 children’s hospitals, including Memphis’ Le Bonheur, reported having or developing Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Programs (HVIPs), which are multidisciplinary programs that connect victims of violent crime with:
    • Medical care
    • Mental health support
    • Socioeconomic resources
  • These programs aim to interrupt the cycle of violence by addressing trauma and underlying risk factors.

Read the full report here.

Vanderbilt Poll shows continued strong, bipartisan support for firearm safety policies.

Some of these initiatives align with the firearm safety policies Safer TN is working to advance. While we don’t believe every solution requires new legislation and are not currently advocating for secure storage mandates, we strongly support increasing education for gun owners on how safe storage can save lives.

Key findings from the poll:

• 86% of voters (including 74% of self-identified MAGA Republicans) support requiring gun owners to report lost or stolen firearms.
• 78% of voters favor a law to temporarily limit access for individuals at high risk of harming themselves or others.
• 74% of voters oppose expanding the right to carry long guns such as hunting rifles, assault rifles, and shotguns in public.
• 69% support laws requiring secure firearm storage in vehicles, and 67% support secure storage requirements in homes.
• Women consistently support these policies at higher rates than men, with a gap of 16 to 29 percentage points.

Read the full report here.

What Tennessee can learn from other states

The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health introduced firearm safety courses in January 2023 to help future physicians address firearm injuries and deaths through education and cultural competency. Led by Dr. James Bigham, the courses provide a safe space for medical students to learn about firearms, ask open questions, and gain hands-on experience through a partnership with Max Creek Outdoors. Bigham emphasizes that primary care doctors play a critical role in preventing firearm-related injuries and believes that understanding firearm culture helps build trust with patients. Additionally, Wisconsin gun shops offer temporary firearm storage for individuals in crisis, reinforcing the importance of responsible gun ownership. Read the full story here.

Suicide by firearm is a leading cause of death in the U.S., with roughly 90% of attempts being fatal. In response, initiatives to safely store guns have emerged in Louisiana, with Caleb Morse, a veteran, offering firearm storage at his gun shop to help those at risk. Since 2018, he’s safely stored 400 firearms, potentially saving lives. Studies show that removing guns from immediate access during a crisis significantly reduces the likelihood of fatal outcomes. Louisiana has passed laws to protect store owners from liability when offering such services.

Watch the CBS News story here.

Community conversations on firearm safety

This week, Safer TN hit the road to connect with community leaders at Rotary meetings in Lebanon (Wilson County) and Milan (Gibson County). We shared ways to engage in improving firearm safety in our state and gained valuable insight from local perspectives. Our Board Chair, Todd Cruse, led an important discussion at the Milan Rotary, emphasizing the power of community-driven solutions. These conversations are a key part of our work—bringing people together, finding common ground, and taking meaningful steps toward a safer Tennessee.

A powerful takeaway from Milan: healthcare professionals shared their firsthand experience treating shooting survivors who face lifelong challenges, reinforcing the urgent need for action. If you’re part of a Rotary or community group interested in hearing from Safer TN, we’d love to visit—email Emily@safertn.org with details!

How Have Calls for Gun Reform in Nashville Changed? (Nashville Banner)
Safer TN is quoted in the article.

Monroe County mother faces charges in 2-year-old daughter’s death (WBIR Knoxville)

Self-professed serial killer gets 159 more years for 3 other murders (Law&Crime)

Wild footage shows Chattanooga nightclub security guard firing back at gunman (New York Post)

Two boys injured in Raleigh shooting (Fox13 Memphis)

Second Amendment protections review

President Trump issued his first executive order related to firearms this month, directing the Attorney General to review all existing regulations for potential Second Amendment infringements. While the president cannot create new laws through an executive order, this move could roll back Biden-era firearm policies, change how the ATF enforces certain regulations, and even impact the federal government’s stance in Second Amendment court cases. We’ll be watching closely to see what this means for firearm policy moving forward.

Over the next few months, we’ll be visiting Rotary and Kiwanis Clubs across Tennessee to share our mission, discuss the importance of firearm safety and connect with community leaders. These conversations are key to building partnerships and advancing solutions that protect Tennessee families. 

If you are a member of a community or civic organization in Tennessee that would be interested in hosting Safer TN to discuss ways we can make our state safer, please email info@safertn.org.

Do you care about preventing firearm tragedies and keeping your feet warm? You’re in luck! Safer TN has launched a new sock line for the conscientious people in your life. We have dress socks and youth socks available now!

Every purchase helps fund our mission to promote firearm safety and protect Tennessee families. Get your pair today!

Firearms are the leading means of youth suicide (ages 9-17) in Tennessee, according to the 2024 Tennessee State of the Child Report.  While only about 8.5% of all suicide attempts are fatal, attempts with a firearm are 90% of the time.

In August and September 2024, 1 in 9 Tennessee households with children reported a need for mental health treatment. This was most commonly reported among highest income $200,000 or more. Of those needing treatment, 64% received it, but 20% found it difficult to access, particularly those earning between $100,000 and $149,000. Overall, 42% of families were satisfied with the treatment their child received.

The Tennessee Department of Health has a statewide resource guide of mental heath and suicide prevention services, which you can find here.

The National Association of School Psychologists also lists recommendations for parents and educators on how to help a young person who might be struggling or considering suicide.

A rural Tennessee county changed the way it separates guns from dangerous people. Now the rest of the state may follow suit. (WPLN)

TN among states with highest violent crime rate in US, data shows (WSMV4)

How to close America’s life expectancy gap (STAT)
“In fact, according to an analysis from the AAMC Research and Action Institute that we co-authored, if we could eliminate deaths from just three external causes of injury and death —alcohol, drugs, and firearms (including firearm suicides) — we would increase the average U.S. life expectancy at birth by about 1.6 years. That would nearly close the life expectancy gap between the United States and other developed countries.“

Community Aims to ‘Wrap Antioch in Love’ (WKRN Nashville)

‘We love you so much,’ Valentines crafted to lift students’ spirits (NewsChannel 5 Nashville)