Senate Bill 607 amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to firearms, particularly focusing on the regulations surrounding juvenile possession of firearms. The bill deletes several subsections from Section 39-17-1307, including subsections (a), (e), and (g), and modifies subsection (b)(1) by removing the term "unlawfully." Additionally, it introduces a new subsection that establishes it as an offense for juveniles to carry a firearm with the intent to go armed, classifying such a violation as a Class A misdemeanor. The bill also outlines specific exceptions for juveniles, such as attending safety courses, engaging in organized competitions, or being accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Furthermore, the bill revises the eligibility criteria for obtaining an enhanced handgun carry permit by lowering the minimum age from twenty-one to eighteen years and clarifying that applicants must not be prohibited from possessing a firearm. It also makes changes to the language regarding defenses to firearm possession and carrying laws. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, emphasizing the public welfare.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39-17-1307, 39-17-1307(b)(1), 39-17-1313(a), 39-17-1313, 39-17-1364, 39-17-1308, 39-17-1351(b), 39-17-1351, 39-17-1351(x)(1)