House Bill 237 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Section 39-17-1307(g), regarding the eligibility criteria for carrying handguns. The bill deletes the existing subdivision (g)(1) and replaces it with new criteria that specify conditions under which individuals may carry handguns based on their location and age. Under the new provisions, individuals with a handgun carry permit can carry in counties with a metropolitan government of over 500,000 residents or in counties with populations exceeding 900,000. Alternatively, individuals not in these counties may carry if they are at least 21 years old or at least 18 years old and meet certain military service criteria.

The new language introduces specific age and military service requirements for those under 21, allowing individuals who are honorably discharged veterans or current members of the armed forces to carry handguns at 18. This change aims to clarify and expand the circumstances under which individuals can legally carry firearms in Tennessee, reflecting a more nuanced approach to gun rights based on demographic and military service factors. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2023.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39-17-1307(g), 39-17-1307