House Bill 1757 and Senate Bill 1747 propose an amendment to Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13, introducing a new section that criminalizes the reckless discharge of a firearm in public gatherings. Specifically, it establishes that a person commits an offense if they discharge a firearm into the air, ground, a body of water, or an object in proximity to themselves at a public event attended by at least twenty-five people. Such a violation is classified as a Class A misdemeanor.

The bill outlines several exceptions where the discharge of a firearm would not be considered an offense, including actions taken by law enforcement officers in the course of their duties, military personnel acting under orders, and specific wildlife management scenarios. Additionally, it amends Section 39-17-1351(e) by replacing the existing language to include the newly created section 39-17-1330. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Amended with SA0908 -- 04/09/2026: 39-17-1351(e), 39-17-1351