House Bill 2174 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Section 39-17-1306, by deleting the existing subdivision (c)(3) and substituting it with a new provision that specifies judges who are authorized to carry a handgun and vested with judicial powers. The new language clarifies that this applies to chancery, circuit, appellate court judges, and governor-appointed judges. Additionally, the bill introduces a new section that allows sitting or retired judges to carry a weapon, including a firearm, in any location where law enforcement officers are permitted to do so, provided they are authorized to carry a handgun.

The bill also includes a provision that changes the effective date of the act to July 1, 2026. This legislative change aims to enhance the rights of judges regarding firearm possession and carry, aligning their privileges more closely with those of law enforcement officers.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39-17-1306
Amended with SA0905 -- 04/13/2026: 39-17-1306, 39-17-1306(c)(3)