Rep. Todd files bill safeguarding Tennesseans’ right to bear arms
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Chris Todd, (R-Madison County), has introduced legislation to further protect Tennesseans’ right to keep and bear arms.
House Bill 2064 would strengthen Second Amendment protections in the Volunteer State by eliminating a vague provision in Tennessee law that makes it a criminal offense to carry a firearm with the intent to go armed. The current statute relies on a confusing list of exceptions and defenses.
“The God-given right to keep and bear arms has been foundational to the continued success of our state and nation,” Todd said. “This critical legislation provides needed clarity by reforming the structure of our gun laws to ensure law-abiding Tennesseans can legally carry firearms across the state. These essential changes preserve individual liberty and safeguard the ability of citizens to protect themselves, their families and their communities.”
In August, the 28th Judicial District Chancery Court in Gibson County ruled that Tennessee’s going armed statute was unconstitutional. Todd’s legislation would clarify that all eligible Tennesseans can lawfully carry firearms under applicable state and federal laws.
House Bill 2064 would also protect Tennesseans’ firearm rights in state or local parks, greenways, or other recreational properties, or in national parks, as permitted by federal law, in accordance with the same court ruling.
“This proposal will correct the complicated and convoluted set of laws that have confused Tennesseans for decades,” Todd added.
The proposal aims to provide clear legal protections for Tennessee residents while upholding rights listed in the Second Amendment.
House Bill 2064 will be heard in the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee in the coming weeks.
State Rep. Chris Todd represents District 73 in the Tennessee House of Representatives, which includes most of Madison County.
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