Firearms and Ammunition - As enacted, expands the definition of "machine gun" to include any part, or combination of parts, designed and intended solely for use in converting a firearm into a machine gun; increases the classification for the intentional or knowing possession, manufacture, transport, repair, or sale of a machine gun from a Class E to a Class C felony; reclassifies certain other offenses involving the possession of firearm or handgun ammunition; makes a defendant ineligible for parole if convicted of aggravated assault that involved the use of a firearm from within a motor vehicle. - Amends TCA Title 39 and Title 40.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee law elevates machine gun offenses to Class C felonies, expands conversion-part definitions, and eliminates parole eligibility for firearm-based aggravated assault from vehicles.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 513

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Legislative bill overview

SB 1075 strengthens Tennessee's firearms regulations by expanding the legal definition of "machine guns" to include conversion parts, elevating machine gun-related offenses from Class E to Class C felonies, and reclassifying ammunition possession offenses. The bill also eliminates parole eligibility for aggravated assault convictions involving firearms discharged from vehicles.

Why is this important

Machine gun conversions have become a growing enforcement concern, as illegally modified firearms can be created with readily available parts and kits. These changes significantly increase criminal penalties and remove parole options for vehicle-based gun crimes, reflecting a policy shift toward stricter gun crime enforcement in Tennessee. The reclassification of ammunition offenses may also broaden criminal liability in firearm-related cases.

Potential points of contention

Constitutional concerns: Definitions of "parts designed and intended" for conversion could face legal challenges regarding vagueness or Second Amendment implications, particularly regarding lawful parts sales

Sentencing disparities: Elevating machine gun offenses to Class C felonies creates substantial sentencing increases; critics may argue this disproportionately affects certain demographics or that alternatives exist

Mandatory parole ineligibility: Removing parole discretion for vehicle-based aggravated assault may conflict with individualized sentencing principles and could impact cases with mitigating circumstances

Ammunition reclassification scope: The "certain other offenses" language lacks transparency about which ammunition-related charges were reclassified and their practical impact on enforcement