Safer TN Tracker

Safer TN Tracker | 5.2.25

Jessica Jaglois · May 2, 2025 ·

A successful legislative session has come to a close — and we’re proud of the meaningful progress made this year. (We’ll share more details on that below!) With the legislative season wrapping up, The Tracker is transitioning to a monthly format. This change allows us to deliver more thoughtful updates, highlight big-picture progress, and keep you informed without crowding your inbox.

But don’t worry — you won’t be out of the loop! We’ll still send timely email alerts about what’s happening in your area, upcoming events, and other important developments. And as always, you can stay connected with us in real time on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Thank you for being part of this movement — your voice, engagement, and support continue to drive change.

Celebrating Progress: Safer TN Reflects on a Powerful Legislative Session

Safer TN believes in turning urgency into action — and the 2025 legislative session was a powerful example of that.

Over the course of just 90 days, we helped advocate for policies that create safer communities and helped stop dangerous legislation that would have put more lives at risk. Thanks to our volunteers, partners, and supporters, we’re proud to share some key wins and milestones from this session.

In collaboration with law enforcement, lawmakers and prosecutors, we successfully advocated for several measures that passed with strong bipartisan backing:

Banning Glock switches, which turn handguns into fully automatic weapons
Prohibiting felons from possessing ammunition
Strengthening sentencing for drive-by shootings
Criminalizing threats of mass violence

We also stopped legislation that would have made Tennesseans less safe — like bills weakening security at schools, hospitals, and houses of worship. With growing bipartisan support, we helped stop these bills before they could do harm.

Read our full press release here.

$50K to $2 Million — and Counting

Thanks to the incredible generosity of supporters across Tennessee — and a matching gift from Memphis philanthropist Barbara Hyde — we’re thrilled to share that Safer TN raised more than $65,000 in just 50 hours, far surpassing our $50,000 goal.

This marks a major milestone: we’ve now raised over $2 million since our founding.

Your support powers work that saves lives, including:

Education and outreach to more than 30,000 Tennesseans, sharing practical, nonpolitical tips for safe firearm storage and responsible ownership.
Billboard campaigns seen by millions, reminding parents, communities, and gun owners how small actions — like locking up firearms — prevent tragedies.
Distribution of gun locks and secure storage information to new parents and caregivers across the state.
Data-driven research and polling that will give lawmakers and community members the information they need to shape smart, effective safety policies.
PSA campaigns and digital outreach that will bring firearm suicide prevention and safe storage tips into homes and communities statewide.

We’re deeply grateful to every one of you who helped make this milestone possible. Your generosity is more than a number — it’s fuel for a growing, statewide movement for a safer Tennessee.

It’s not too late to make a difference. Donate now to support this lifesaving work and help us keep the momentum going. Every gift is tax-deductible and directly supports education, outreach, and advocacy across our state.

You can learn more about how your donation dollars work by clicking here.

Trippin’ in Tennessee

Over the past month, the Safer TN team has been on the road — meeting with Tennesseans from all walks of life to discuss practical, lifesaving solutions to firearm violence. These visits are central to our mission: bringing data, education, and community-driven strategies directly to the people who care deeply about safety in their neighborhoods.

In Memphis, we had the opportunity to connect with faith, business, and civic leaders to discuss the unique challenges their communities face and the ways we can work together to build a safer future. We also shared strategies for secure firearm storage and emphasized how simple, voluntary actions can save lives.

In Chattanooga, we spoke at the Avondale Community Center, where we joined local residents for a meaningful conversation about firearm tragedy prevention. We were inspired by the level of community engagement and the commitment to finding common ground.

This past week, we traveled to Clarksville, Clinton, and downtown Nashville, continuing our outreach and speaking with partners and residents about how education and awareness can drive real change.

We’ve also been in touch with community leaders in Knoxville, where we’re planning a community-focused event this June.

Everywhere we go, we’re reminded that Tennesseans want safety solutions. They want to protect their families, neighbors, and communities — and they’re eager to learn how they can help.

If you’re part of a Chamber of Commerce, PTO, Kiwanis, Rotary, Lions Club, or other civic group, and you’re interested in hosting a conversation about firearm safety, we’d love to connect. Whether in person or via Zoom, we’re here to bring the tools, data, and hope that can move us toward a safer Tennessee.

To learn more or schedule a visit, reach out to us at emily@safertn.org. We look forward to hearing from you.

Safer TN Tracker | 4.21.25

Jessica Jaglois · April 20, 2025 ·

Our hearts are with the Florida State University community and all those impacted by last Thursday’s devastating shooting, in which the son of a sheriff’s deputy allegedly used her service weapon to kill two people and injure six others. This tragedy is yet another painful reminder of how easily firearms can fall into the wrong hands — and how quickly lives can be shattered.

According to The Washington Post, the majority of school shootings in America involve firearms taken from the homes of parents, relatives, or friends. This fact underscores what we at Safer TN know to be true: secure firearm storage is a lifesaving measure.

That’s why we’ve launched a new public awareness campaign, including billboards across the state, to urge responsible gun ownership and promote secure storage practices. Because at the heart of a safer Tennessee is a shared commitment to protecting one another — especially our children.

This message carries even more weight as we mark a day bookended by two heartbreaking anniversaries: the Columbine High School massacre and the Waffle House shooting in Nashville. These tragedies — and far too many others — remind us why our work matters. At Safer TN, we reflect, we grieve, and we press forward.

Honoring the victims of two mass shootings

Monday is bookended by two painful anniversaries that underscore the urgency of our work. Sunday marked 26 years since the Columbine High School massacre, where 12 students and one teacher were killed—a tragedy that shook the nation and marked the beginning of a devastating trend. On Tuesday, we remember the Waffle House shooting in Nashville, where four young lives were taken and four others injured—two of whom were left unable to walk.

Since Columbine in 1999, there have been 428 school shootings nationwide—an average of 17 per year, or more than one every month, according to The Washington Post. Here in Tennessee, we’ve seen 93 mass shootings in the past five years alone, according to the Gun Violence Archive—that’s one nearly every other week and it continues to rise.

In nearly 9 out of 10 cases where the source of a school shooter’s firearm could be determined, the gun came from the home of a parent, relative, or friend.

Still, there is a glimmer of hope in the Volunteer State. According to the Tennessee Department of Education, serious incidents in schools—such as handgun possession and assaults on teachers—decreased during the 2023–2024 school year. But we cannot let our guard down.

Secure firearm storage is such a critical part of the solution. With this anniversary, we reflect, we remember—and we recommit to protecting our children, educators, and communities.

Spotlighting Tennessee’s intimate partner homicide

In 2022, nearly 200 Tennesseans lost their lives to homicide or suicide following violence or conflict in their intimate partner relationships, according to data from Tennessee’s Violent Death Reporting System. Most of these deaths involved a firearm.

That troubling reality has been reflected in headlines across the state over the past two weeks. In the Tri-Cities, a man was convicted of murdering his girlfriend. In Memphis, a woman was allegedly killed by her boyfriend. In Nashville, a murder-suicide claimed the life of a mother. And in Crockett County, a woman shot her intimate partner, reportedly in self-defense.

These tragic stories are part of a broader pattern. Most intimate partner homicides are committed with a firearm—making access to guns a deadly factor in abusive relationships. At Safer TN, we are committed to raising awareness and advocating for policies that help keep families safe, including efforts to ensure firearms are securely stored and kept out of the hands of those who pose a danger to others or themselves.

Advocates urge loved ones to speak up if they suspect violence in someone’s relationship. Asking questions, offering support, and helping connect people to resources can make a difference. Survivors are also encouraged to have a plan in place before leaving an abusive situation—leaving can be the most dangerous time.

Find more resources and tips for help at the YWCA.

Legislative Tracker

The TN General Assembly is wrapping up final votes this week, after passing a $59.8 billion budget last Wednesday. Despite the dozens of firearm-related bills introduced at the start of session, only a handful have made it across the finish line.

The good news: None of the truly dangerous bills Safer TN opposed made it out of committee. Additionally, two important bills for public safety – one that would criminalize threats of mass violence, and another that would make Glock switches and ammunition possession by felons illegal – have cleared major hurdles and are up for final votes today and possibly tomorrow.

Monday, April 21 (TODAY):

Expect a Senate Floor vote on SB1296, sponsored by Leader Jack Johnson, to criminalize threats of mass violence. The Senate is meeting at 4pm for floor votes, and this legislation appears as #28 on the Regular Calendar. Watch floor votes live here.

The House version of this legislation, HB1314, passed the House on April 15th by a vote of 83-11. Thanks to Leader Lamberth for his leadership on this bill!

Expect a House Floor vote on HB1093, sponsored by Speaker Sexton. This legislation makes Glock switches illegal at the state level (these enable a pistol to fire automatically like a machine gun), prohibits felons from possessing ammunition, and requires 100% of sentence to be served for a person convicted of aggravated assault involving the discharge of a firearm from within a motor vehicle. The House is meeting at 10am today for votes, and this bill appears as #22 on the Regular Calendar. Good news for this bill, it received funding in last week’s budget bill, so if approved it has the appropriated funds to go into effect. Watch floor votes live here.

The Senate version of this bill, SB1075, sponsored by Leader Johnson, is up for consideration today in Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee, which is meeting at 12:30pm today. SB1075 is #20 on the calendar. If it passes out of committee, it will be calendared for the Senate Floor. Watch the committee hearing live here.

To make it to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law, a bill must pass both the House and Senate.

Presentations in suburban/rural parts of Tennessee

At Safer TN, we’re passionate about connecting with and educating communities across Tennessee=about the very real dangers of unsecured firearms, the rise in firearm suicide rates, and the practical, life-saving steps we can take together to build safer communities.

Our educational presentations highlight solutions like increasing access to mental health care, implementing effective school safety measures, and ensuring firearms are securely stored and kept out of the hands of those who pose a risk to themselves or others.

Last week, we were honored to bring this message to the Montgomery County Health Council and the Sumner County NAACP, where we engaged in meaningful conversations and shared resources grounded in data and compassion.

Want to help us expand our reach? You can! Connect us with a civic organization, neighborhood group, workplace, or church — any group that could benefit from an evidence-based, engaging presentation on gun safety.

Just email us at info@safertn.org — we’d love to join you.

Passover, Easter and a belated Eid al-Fitr

Over the past several weeks, many across the U.S. have observed sacred holidays and traditions — from Good Friday and Easter, to Passover, to Eid al-Fitr. We hope everyone who celebrated found moments of peace, connection, and joy with family, friends, neighbors, and their wider communities.

At Safer TN, these moments remind us why we do this work: because everyone deserves to be safe — safe while celebrating milestones of faith and culture, safe in their schools and homes, and safe as they move through the world. It’s not about politics or partisanship — it’s about people. No matter your religion, beliefs, age, or background, your right to safety is non-negotiable.

If you’re feeling alone in your concern, or want to connect with others who share your values, reach out! We’re building a movement grounded in compassion, data, and real community action — and we’d love for you to be part of it.

Follow us on social media, email us at info@safertn.org, or consider making a donation to support our work. Together, we’re creating a safer Tennessee — for everyone.

Safer TN Tracker | 4.14.25

Jessica Jaglois · April 14, 2025 ·

Less than two weeks ago—while many of us were sheltering in our bathrooms during tornado warnings—a 4-year-old boy in Memphis tragically accessed an unsecured firearm, with fatal consequences. It was the third unintentional shooting involving a child in Memphis in just one week.

If you’ve been with Safer TN for a while, you know the sobering truth: firearms have been the leading cause of death for children in Tennessee since 2017. Even more alarming, Tennessee now ranks third in the nation for unintentional shootings by children.These heartbreaking and entirely preventable tragedies are exactly why Safer TN is stepping up efforts to raise awareness and promote secure firearm storage. This month, we launched our first-ever billboard campaign to educate communities and encourage responsible gun ownership across the state.

Raising Awareness: Our First Billboard Campaign

Last week, we unveiled a series of billboards across Nashville, Sumner and Rutherford counties, and Clarksville. These messages are designed to grab attention and inspire action—highlighting the critical importance of keeping firearms stored unloaded, locked, and separate from ammunition.

So far in 2025, Tennessee has already seen more than 21 accidental shootings, including at least one child death. Our campaign draws from safety recommendations shared by both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the NRA—an important reminder that secure storage is common ground we can all stand on.

The billboards will remain up through June 7, reinforcing a consistent message across Middle Tennessee communities: secure storage saves lives.

Legislative Tracker

We are in the home stretch of the 2025 legislative session. Republican House and Senate leaders expect to have the Tennessee budget bill ready for floor votes by the end of this week, putting the General Assembly on track to adjourn the week after Easter.

While most committees have closed for the session, the House and Senate Finance Committees still have full agendas reviewing the remaining bills that may still receive funding in the budget.

We’ve been keeping tabs (and working behind the scenes) on key legislation all session long. Following adjournment, Safer TN will provide a detailed update on the firearm-related bills that failed and those that became law, and what they mean for community safety.

Below are the remaining bills and committees we are tracking.

Week of April 14^th – Committees and Bills We’re Tracking

Monday, April 14:

· 9am – House Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee, Agenda & Livestream

o #2 on Regular Calendar 1. HB1093 by Sexton. (*SB1075 by Johnson.) As amended, makes possession of Glock switch a D felony, aligns state law with federal law; Makes those prohibited from possessing firearms also prohibited from possessing ammunition (D felony), aligns state law with federal law; and, Increases minimum penalties for aggravated assault with a firearm from within a vehicle (e.g. drive by shootings) by requiring 100% of sentence to be served.

o #30 on Regular Calendar 5. *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.

· 2pm – House Floor Votes, Calendar & Livestream

o #11 on Regular Calendar. HB1314 by Lamberth. (*SB1296 by Johnson.) 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.

o #24 on Regular Calendar. 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.

Tuesday, April 15:

· 9am – House Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee, Agenda & Livestream

o Will continue working through bills from Monday’s calendar.

· 1:30pm – Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee, Agenda & Livestream

o #8. *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.

Wednesday, April 16:

· 9:15am – Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee, Agenda & Livestream

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

· 3pm – House Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee, Agenda & Livestream Will continue working through bills from Tuesday’s calendar.

Volunteer Spotlight: Tommy Ragsdale

This week, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on one of our dedicated volunteers, Tommy Ragsdale—a Tennessean whose life of service continues to shape his commitment to firearm safety and community well-being. Tommy grew up in Nashville and graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy before serving in the United States Marine Corps.

For Tommy, advocating for safer communities isn’t about taking sides. It’s about finding common ground. He believes that responsible firearm ownership and safer communities are not opposing goals—they go hand in hand. He sees firearm safety not as a political issue, but a moral one, rooted in our shared responsibility to prevent avoidable tragedies and protect the lives of children and families across Tennessee.

Tommy’s steady leadership, clear voice, and compassionate approach continue to inspire those around him. We’re honored to have him as part of the Safer TN family. Watch his video spotlight here to learn more about why this mission matters so deeply to him.

Did your yard sign weather the storms?

In the wake of the recent severe weather across Tennessee, our hearts are with everyone in our coalition and the broader community who may have been affected. We know how unsettling and destructive these storms can be, and we hope that you and your loved ones are safe, and that your home was spared from serious damage. Times like these remind us of the strength and resilience of our community—and how important it is to look out for one another.

If your Safer TN yard sign or stakes were damaged, lost, or blown away during the storms, please don’t hesitate to let us know. These signs are more than just decorations—they’re powerful symbols of the shared values we stand for: safety, responsibility, and a commitment to protecting our children and communities. We want to make sure you can continue to display that message proudly.

Whether your stakes were snapped or your sign disappeared altogether, we’ll gladly send you a replacement free of charge. Just fill out this quick form and we’ll get one to you as soon as possible. Thank you for being a visible and vocal part of our movement—rain or shine.

Juice Box Jam

This past weekend, Safer TN had a blast at Juice Box Jam—the family-friendly remix of the beloved Whiskey Jam—hosted by our friends at Family Alliance in Music. From the live music to the joyful energy of kids dancing and playing, it was a celebration of community, connection, and care. We were so grateful for the opportunity to join in and speak with Tennessee families about the importance of secure firearm storage. Events like these are such a meaningful way to reach parents and caregivers where they are—with practical tools and conversations that can truly save lives.

At our booth, we shared free safety materials, answered questions, and offered tips on how to talk to friends and family about safe gun storage—whether you’re hosting a playdate or sending your kids to a friend’s house. We were encouraged by how many folks were eager to learn, engage, and spread the message.

Are you planning a neighborhood gathering, community event, or school function? We’d love to partner with you! Safer TN can provide educational materials, talking points, and resources to help spark important conversations about responsible firearm ownership. If you’d like us to be part of your next event, just reach out to emily@safertn.org. Together, we can keep building safer, stronger communities across Tennessee.

Officials speak out about Hickory Hill mass shooting at gun violence prevention event (Fox 13 Memphis)
Man shot while meeting person from Facebook Messenger (Action News 5)

Safer TN Tracker | 4.7.25

Jessica Jaglois · April 7, 2025 ·

As the legislative session begins to wind down, our work at Safer TN continues at full speed—both at the Capitol and across the state. While lawmakers may soon adjourn, our commitment to building a safer Tennessee is just entering its next phase. After session, we’ll pivot our energy toward deepening community engagement, expanding our educational programming, and strengthening partnerships with faith communities, healthcare providers, and local organizations.

We’ll be launching new secure storage awareness campaigns, developing resources to help families and gun owners make safety-centered choices, and visiting communities who want to benefit from our data-informed knowledge on community safety. At the same time, we’ll begin laying the groundwork for the 2026 legislative session. This movement doesn’t pause when the legislature does. It grows. And we’re incredibly grateful to have your support, your voice, and your presence as we continue this critical work together.

Legislative Tracker

We are in the final weeks of the 2025 legislative session, as the General Assembly is expected to adjourn in mid-April. Some House and Senate Committees have already “closed” and completed their business for the year, and several more are expected to close this week.

Some good news: several bad bills failed to advance this past week include legislation that would have removed penalties for carrying a firearm into a posted place of business, and a bill that would have lowered from 21 to 18 the age to allow permitless carry of handguns and for enhanced carry permits.

Several good bills are up for consideration this week, including legislation to criminalize threats of mass violence and make glock switches (which enable pistols to fire like machine guns) illegal at the state level. See the full list of what we’re tracking below.

Week of April 7^th – Committees and Bills We’re Tracking

Tuesday, April 8:

9AM – HOUSE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE, House Hearing Room I, Agenda & Livestream

HB468
Reeves L.

Increases penalty for reckless endangerment. As amended, expands the offense of reckless endangerment to include discharging a firearm or antique firearm into a motor vehicle. Establishes that discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle is a Class C felony, while discharging a firearm into an unoccupied vehicle is a Class D felony. Authorizes the offense to be prosecuted as aggravated assault, or any other criminal offense, if applicable. Fiscal Note: (Dated January 24, 2025) STATE GOVERNMENT EXPENDITURES Incarceration $84,700. SB163 – J. Hensley – 04/02/25 – Set for Senate Judiciary Committee 04/08/25.

HB1189 Grills R.	Enhanced and concealed firearm carry permits. 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. Broadly captioned. Allows for permit holders to openly carry loaded long guns. Fiscal Note: (Dated March 21, 2025) OTHER FISCAL IMPACT The proposed legislation will require updates to the Department of Safety’s A-List software system and changes in handgun permit design and implementation. It is assumed that these updates can be accomplished by the vendors under current contractual agreements without a need for additional expenditures. However, if the scope of work required by this and other legislation subsequently enacted exhausts the relevant contract provisions, the proposed legislation could result in an increase in state expenditures of $142,600 in FY25-26. SB1227 – A. Lowe – 04/02/25 – Set for Senate Judiciary Committee 04/08/25.
HJR53 Reedy J.	Constitutional amendment – right to keep and bear arms. 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. – 04/03/25 – H: Set for House Judiciary Committee 04/08/25.
HB856 Capley K.	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. Fiscal Note: (Dated March 4, 2025) NOT SIGNIFICANT. SB1407 – J. Hensley – 04/02/25 – Set for Senate Judiciary Committee 04/08/25.
HB947 Brooks S.	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. Fiscal Note: (Dated March 12, 2025) NOT SIGNIFICANT SB1191 – R. Akbari – 04/02/25 – Set for Senate Judiciary Committee 04/08/25.
HB873 Fritts M.	Civil actions against arms dealers, manufacturers, and sellers. 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, tasers, stun guns, and other certain products. Requires physical injury for a negligent entrustment action rather than an unreasonable risk of physical injury. Makes various other changes regarding civil actions against arms dealers, manufacturers, and sellers and the preemption of local regulation of firearms. Broadly captioned. Amendment Summary: House Civil Justice Committee amendment 1 (004178) makes various revisions to certain definitions, legal liabilities, burdens of proof, processes, and rights of action as they pertain to qualified civil liability actions brought against a manufacturer or seller of firearms and other weapons, to the effect of broadening and reinforcing certain legal immunities such manufacturers and sellers are provided against liability actions related to the use of their products. Restricts the applicability of foreign judgements in such actions in this state under public nuisance or market share theories of liability by requiring they do not violate the relevant policies of this state, and that they otherwise would be allowable under the laws of this state. Increases restrictions on local governments to regulate and enforce certain laws and policies related to firearms and ammunition and their use, including limiting such regulations to only those established by ordinance or resolution, rather than also such regulations enacted by policy or rule, and to only those established or authorized by state law, rather than state or federal law. Elevates state law supremacy in qualified civil liability actions against manufacturers and sellers of firearms and other weapons, and in the regulation of firearms, weapons, and weapons products, generally. Fiscal Note: (Dated March 23, 2025) NOT SIGNIFICANT. SB1360 – J. Hensley – 04/02/25 – Set for Senate Judiciary Committee 04/08/25.

12:30PM – HOUSE FINANCE WAYS & MEANS COMMITTEE, House Hearing Room I, Agenda & Livestream

HB1314
Lamberth W.

Criminal offenses for threatening to commit an act of mass violence and posting an individual’s number or address. As amended, creates a Class E felony offense for knowingly, by any means of communication, threatening to commit an act of mass violence and the threat causes another to reasonably expect the commission of an act of mass violence. This classification is enhanced to a Class D felony if: (1) the violation involves a threat to commit mass violence on the property of a school, house of worship, or government, or at a live performance or event; (2) the defendant has one of more prior convictions for such offense or a Class A misdemeanor threat of mass violence on a school property; or (3) the defendant takes a substantial step towards the execution of the threatened act and engages in preparatory actions. Authorizes a sentencing court to order a person convicted of threatening to commit an act of mass violence to pay restitution, including costs and damages resulting from the disruption of the normal activity that would have otherwise occurred but for the threat. Creates a Class B misdemeanor offense for posting on a publicly accessible website a person’s telephone number or address with the intent to threat or cause harm. Enhances the penalty, from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class A misdemeanor, if the offense results in harm to the individual or a member of the household. Fiscal Note: Incarceration $822,200. SB1296 – J. Johnson – 04/01/25 – Senate Judiciary Committee recommended with amendment 1 (004348). Sent to Senate Finance.

1PM – SENATE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE, Senate Hearing Room I, Agenda & Livestream

SB1075 Johnson J.	Makes Glock switches illegal. As amended, expands the definition of machine gun as it relates to weapons offenses. Provides an exception for acquiring or possessing such a weapon if the person is in full compliance with the National Firearms Act. Increases the offense of intentionally or knowingly possessing, manufacturing, transporting, repairing, or selling a machine gun from a Class E felony to a Class C felony. Expands the offense of unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction of a felony crime of violence, an attempt to commit a felony crime of violence, or a felony involving a deadly weapon, or a prior conviction for a felony drug offense, to include possession of ammunition. Expands the offense of unlawful possession of a handgun to include possession of ammunition. Prohibits probation for a person convicted of aggravated assault involving the discharge of a firearm from within a motor vehicle. Establishes that a person incarcerated for the offense of aggravated assault, if the offense involved the use of a firearm from within a motor vehicle, is ineligible to receive sentence reduction credits and must serve 100 percent of the imposed sentence. Fiscal Note: (Dated February 7, 2025) NOT SIGNIFICANT. HB1093 – C. Sexton – 03/26/25 – House Finance Subcommittee placed behind the budget.
SB1082 Johnson J.	Offense of possessing a firearm or antique firearm during commission or attempt to commit a dangerous felony. Adds certain criminal offenses, including first degree murder, second degree murder, and reckless homicide 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. Amendment Summary: House Judiciary Committee amendment 1 (005970) expands the definition of dangerous felony in regard to weapons offenses, to include 15 additional criminal offenses. Fiscal Note: (Dated February 27, 2025) STATE GOVERNMENT EXPENDITURES Incarceration $117,600. HB578 – C. Doggett – 04/02/25 – House Finance Subcommittee placed behind the budget.
SB163 Hensley J.	Increases penalty for reckless endangerment. As amended, expands the offense of reckless endangerment to include discharging a firearm or antique firearm into a motor vehicle. Establishes that discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle is a Class C felony, while discharging a firearm into an unoccupied vehicle is a Class D felony. Authorizes the offense to be prosecuted as aggravated assault, or any other criminal offense, if applicable. Fiscal Note: (Dated January 24, 2025) STATE GOVERNMENT EXPENDITURES Incarceration $84,700. HB468 – L. Reeves – 04/03/25 – Set for House Judiciary Committee 04/08/25.
SB657 Hensley J.	Definition of racketeering activity. Adds organized retail crime and possession or employment of a firearm during the commission of or attempt to commit a dangerous felony to the definition of racketeering activity; clarifies that carjacking is racketeering activity. Broadly captioned. Fiscal Note: (Dated February 13, 2025) NOT SIGNIFICANT. HB587 – R. Scarbrough – 04/03/25 – Set for House Judiciary Committee 04/08/25.
SB1360 Hensley J.	Civil actions against arms dealers, manufacturers, and sellers. 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, tasers, stun guns, 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. Broadly captioned. Amendment Summary: House Civil Justice Committee amendment 1 (004178) makes various revisions to certain definitions, legal liabilities, burdens of proof, processes, and rights of action as they pertain to qualified civil liability actions brought against a manufacturer or seller of firearms and other weapons, to the effect of broadening and reinforcing certain legal immunities such manufacturers and sellers are provided against liability actions related to the use of their products. Restricts the applicability of foreign judgements. Increases restrictions on local governments to regulate and enforce certain laws and policies related to firearms and ammunition and their use. Elevates state law supremacy in qualified civil liability actions against manufacturers and sellers of firearms and other weapons, and in the regulation of firearms, weapons, and weapons products, generally. Fiscal Note: (Dated March 23, 2025) NOT SIGNIFICANT. HB873 – M. Fritts – 04/03/25 – Set for House Judiciary Committee 04/08/25.
SB1407 Hensley J.	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. Fiscal Note: (Dated March 4, 2025) NOT SIGNIFICANT. HB856 – K. Capley – 04/03/25 – Set for House Judiciary Committee 04/08/25.
SB1227 Lowe A.	Enhanced and concealed firearm carry permits. 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. Broadly captioned. Fiscal Note: (Dated March 21, 2025) OTHER FISCAL IMPACT The proposed legislation will require updates to the Department of Safety’s A-List software system and changes in handgun permit design and implementation. It is assumed that these updates can be accomplished by the vendors under current contractual agreements without a need for additional expenditures. However, if the scope of work required by this and other legislation subsequently enacted exhausts the relevant contract provisions, the proposed legislation could result in an increase in state expenditures of $142,600 in FY25-26. HB1189 – R. Grills – 04/03/25 – Set for House Judiciary Committee 04/08/25.
SB1191 Akbari R.	Akilah’s Law. 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. Fiscal Note: (Dated March 12, 2025) NOT SIGNIFICANT. HB947 – S. Brooks – 04/03/25 – Set for House Judiciary Committee 04/08/25.

Wednesday, April 9:

11AM – HOUSE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE, House Hearing Room I, Agenda & Livestream

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

Volunteer spotlight – Katherine at the Capitol

This week, we’re honored to shine a spotlight on Safer TN volunteer Katherine Green—a passionate advocate for safer communities who has become a steady and inspiring presence at the Capitol. Katherine grew up in a home with firearms and understands firsthand the importance of responsible ownership. Her perspective brings a powerful voice to the conversation around firearm safety, bridging the gap between tradition and a shared desire to protect Tennessee families.

The tragedy at The Covenant School in 2023 was a turning point for Katherine. Like so many across the state, she felt called to do more than mourn—she wanted to take meaningful action. Since then, she has shown up time and again, meeting with lawmakers, attending hearings, and standing in solidarity with other volunteers, survivors, and advocates who believe Tennessee can do better.

Katherine represents the heart of our grassroots movement—courageous individuals using their time, stories, and voices to influence change. We’re grateful for her commitment and proud to have her as part of the Safer TN family.

Watch her video spotlight here.

Safer TN hosts a legislative breakfast

Last week, Safer TN hosted a warm and welcoming breakfast at the Capitol for lawmakers, their legislative assistants, and the hardworking staff who help uphold the security and decorum of the building. These individuals play a critical role in the legislative process, and it’s important to us that they know who we are, what we stand for, and why we’re here. Events like this are part of our broader effort to foster constructive relationships, build trust, and create space for meaningful conversations around firearm safety—regardless of political affiliation.

We believe that showing up matters. That consistency, respect, and presence speak volumes. By showing up in a positive, solutions-oriented way, we’re making it clear that Safer TN—and the thousands of Tennesseans we represent—is here to stay. We’ll continue advocating at the Capitol through the end of session, ensuring that the voices of parents, educators, faith leaders, healthcare providers, and responsible gun owners are heard loud and clear.

Walkin’ in Memphis

Safer TN had a deeply productive 36-hour trip to Memphis last week, where we met with influential faith leaders, healthcare professionals, and members of the business community—all united by a shared concern: the toll gun violence continues to take on their city. At Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital alone, 160 children were treated for gunshot wounds in 2024. Already this year, more than 30 young patients have come through their doors for the same reason. Just last week, two Memphis children accidentally shot and killed themselves in separate incidents.

Tragic stories like these are far too common—and they’re fueling a growing coalition in the Bluff City that’s ready to act. Pastors we met with emphasized the urgent need to bridge the harmful perception that gun violence is solely an urban issue. They want to reframe the narrative and build unity around the fact that this is a community issue—one that impacts everyone and requires all voices at the table, especially as rural firearm deaths continue to rise. Meanwhile, business leaders shared their desire to be heard by decision-makers at the Capitol, calling for safer communities where families can thrive and businesses can operate without fear.

What we saw in Memphis was not just heartbreak—it was momentum. Leaders across sectors are eager to partner with Safer TN on expanding firearm safety education and secure storage awareness in meaningful, community-rooted ways. We’re honored to walk alongside them.

Youth turkey hunting season and camo hats!

This past weekend marked Tennessee’s Youth Turkey Hunting Season, and we hope all young hunters had a fun, safe experience out in the field! In Tennessee, youth hunting is regulated to ensure safety and promote responsible practices. Youth hunters must be ages 6-16, be accompanied by a non-hunting adult, and the allowed hunting equipment includes shotguns with No. 4 shot or smaller, archery gear, and Airbows. This season provides a great opportunity for families to spend time outdoors while instilling important traditions of safety and stewardship in our next generation of hunters.

Our Safer TN camo hats are now available in our online store! Grab yours today and show your support for safe, responsible hunting—and for a safer Tennessee. Shop the look in our online store today!

Three teens in critical condition after shooting (Fox13 Memphis)

Chattanooga Police respond to early morning shooting on Broad St (WDEF)

6-year-old among two shot in Frayser (Fox13 Memphis)

Man wanted in Memphis rapper’s murder found dead in Houston (Fox13 Memphis)

Motivated by fame, Covenant shooter prepared for years (Nashville Banner)

Knoxville businesses express concerns after four injured in shooting (WBIR)

Knoxville teen charged with attempted murder after drive-by shooting (WVLT)

Safer TN Tracker | 03.31.25

Jessica Jaglois · March 30, 2025 ·

Every day, we are inspired by the dedication of people who take time out of their busy lives to stand with us—whether by attending legislative hearings, hosting Safer TN gatherings, engaging with communities at local events, or working behind the scenes to support our outreach. Their passion and commitment fuel our movement, making Tennessee a safer place for all.

To celebrate their impact, we are launching a series of volunteer spotlights. Through these profiles, you’ll get to know the incredible individuals who give their time and energy to this cause. We hope their stories inspire you to take action—whether by joining us in advocacy or making a difference within your own community.

Let’s cheer them on together! If you’re interested in getting involved, learn more here.

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.

Legislative Tracker

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.

Cue Willie Nelson’s “On the Road Again”

Safer TN continues our road trip, bringing vital conversations about firearm safety education and advocacy to communities across Tennessee. Last week, we made stops in Trenton, Cookeville, and this week we’re in Memphis to meet with local leaders and organizations to spread awareness and drive meaningful action.

From Rotary and Kiwanis clubs to faith groups and neighborhood associations, we’re engaging with Tennesseans who care deeply about their communities’ safety. Our presentations are rooted in data because the facts are clear: firearm-related deaths are rising in rural areas, and suicide rates among Black Americans are increasing at an alarming pace. These are preventable tragedies, and by raising awareness and promoting responsible firearm storage, education, and policy solutions, we can help turn the tide.

While Tennessee may have different perspectives on firearm ownership, we all share the same goal: keeping our families and communities safe. Safer TN is committed to bringing these conversations to every corner of the state, ensuring that facts—not fear—drive the discussion. If you’re interested in hosting a presentation or getting involved, contact emily@safertn.org.

Hope, as told by a public health advocate and former Senate majority leader

Sen. Bill Frist, MD, recently published a blog post emphasizing the urgent need for firearm safety reforms in Tennessee. He highlights alarming statistics, including the state’s leading rate of firearms stolen from vehicles and its high rankings for accidental shootings, firearm homicides, and youth suicides. As a longtime public health advocate, Sen. Frist compares past life-saving car safety measures to the potential for thoughtful firearm policies that protect lives without infringing on rights. He underscores the importance of Safer TN’s three key priorities: expanding background checks, promoting secure firearm storage, and creating a legal process for temporarily transferring firearms from individuals at risk. Despite the challenges, Frist remains hopeful, citing growing bipartisan momentum and an increasing chorus of voices advocating for responsible firearm safety solutions. Read Sen. Frist’s full post here.