Senate Bill 7043 amends Tennessee law regarding the safe storage of firearms. The bill mandates that individuals who purchase a firearm or apply for a handgun carry permit must sign an affidavit affirming their commitment to store the firearm securely when not in lawful possession. The storage requirements include keeping the firearm in a locked compartment, using a trigger locking device, or employing a locked device that makes the firearm inaccessible to anyone other than the owner and immovable from its stored location. Additionally, individuals who lawfully purchased or possess a firearm before October 1, 2023, must also comply with these storage requirements.

The bill also specifies that firearms stored in vehicles must be kept out of plain sight and in accordance with the aforementioned storage methods. This legislation is set to take effect on October 1, 2023, emphasizing the importance of responsible firearm storage to enhance public safety.