New Laws in Tennessee Promise to Limit Gun-Free Zones

If you hate gun-free zones, you’ll be pleased to know a new batch of state firearm laws recently went into effect in Tennessee, and one result is that more public places than ever will likely be open to concealed carry.

“Public facilities across Tennessee that have posted signs prohibiting firearms will now be required to install new security measures or allow handgun permit holders to carry guns into those spaces,” according to The Tennessean.

The article goes on to identify exceptions. “Parks that are used by schools, as well as schools and libraries where guns are banned, would not have to install metal detecting devices and security guards or representatives”–meaning that they can continue to be gun-free zones.

However, “other public facilities, including Nashville’s main bus depot where signage currently prohibits carrying firearms, would have to add the new security measures,” or allow concealed carry. These facilities would also have to pay for the security upgrades. The thinking is that most public facilities will find it more cost-effective to simply allow concealed carry.

A new law also makes concealed carry while on motorized boats legal, “so long as the person in question is not prohibited from possessing a firearm and is in legal possession of the vehicle.”

WKRN.com also noted two other important modifications to Tennessee’s gun laws: 

– SB1340 Firearms and Ammunition – “As enacted, authorizes district attorneys general and similar persons to carry firearms subject to training and certification requirements if certain requirements met. – Amends TCA Section 39-17-1350.”

– HB0508 Firearms and Ammunition – “As enacted, creates a private cause of action for a party that is adversely affected by a local ordinance, resolution, policy, rule, or other enactment on firearms that is preempted by state law; restricts certain actions by local government in regard to handgun carry permittees. – Amends TCA Title 29, Chapter 20 and Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13.”

Being a Tennessee gun owner and concealed-carry permit holder just got better!

–By Brian McCombie

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