Jean MartinThe Tennessee Senate Judiciary Committee narrowly voted against a contentious proposal that sought to allow concealed carry permit holders to bring guns into businesses without the consent of property owners.
Details of Senate Bill 2180:
Senate Bill 2180, championed by Sen. Joey Hensley, R-Hohenwald, aimed to exempt concealed carry or enhanced-handgun carry permit holders from the existing Tennessee criminal code, which prohibits “possessing a firearm in a concealed manner” if the property owner has posted signage banning weapons.
Opposition from Law Enforcement Agencies:
The Tennessee Department of Safety and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation opposed the bill, expressing concerns that it could allow individuals with valid handgun permits to carry firearms into state buildings, including sensitive locations such as jails, prisons, or Department of Children’s Services facilities.
Contention Over Business Liability:
Supporters of the bill argued that it would bolster gun rights, suggesting that businesses assuming liability by prohibiting guns could face legal consequences.
Sen. Brent Taylor, R-Memphis, likened blocking guns to blocking inhalers and raised concerns about businesses being sued if customers faced medical emergencies or violent incidents without access to firearms.
Opposition from Business Groups:
The Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce condemned the legislation, asserting that it would jeopardize property rights and force business owners to confront armed individuals on their premises, irrespective of their firearm policies.
The Chamber emphasized concerns about the proliferation of guns in establishments and urged against the passage of SB2180/HB1904.
