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SB 807

Firearms and Ammunition - As introduced, creates the Class C misdemeanor offense of storing a firearm or firearm ammunition in a motor vehicle while the person is not in the motor vehicle unless the firearm or firearm ammunition is kept from ordinary observation and locked within the trunk, utility or glove box, or a locked container securely affixed to the motor vehicle; requires the owner of a firearm to report the loss or theft of the firearm to law enforcement within 24 hours of the discovery of the loss or theft. - Amends TCA Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Jeff Yarbro

Tennessee bill criminalizes unsecured firearms in unattended vehicles and requires gun owners report thefts within 24 hours to reduce stolen weapons used in crimes.

Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Judiciary Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 807

Legislative bill overview

SB 807 establishes two new requirements in Tennessee: (1) firearm owners must report lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement within 24 hours of discovery, and (2) firearms and ammunition left unattended in vehicles must be locked in the trunk, glove box, or a secured container—not visible—or the owner faces a Class C misdemeanor charge. These provisions aim to reduce access to unsecured firearms and create accountability for lost weapons.

Why is this important

Unattended firearms in vehicles are frequently stolen and used in subsequent crimes; this bill targets that vulnerability. The 24-hour reporting requirement could help law enforcement track stolen weapons and potentially recover them before they're used illegally. However, implementation depends on public awareness and consistent enforcement across jurisdictions.

Potential points of contention

  • Second Amendment concerns: Gun rights advocates may argue the vehicle storage requirements constitute an unreasonable burden on lawful firearm owners and represent encroachment on constitutional rights.
  • Enforcement challenges: Class C misdemeanors are minor offenses; questions exist about whether police will prioritize enforcement and whether this creates disparate enforcement across communities.
  • Reporting burden and privacy: Gun owners may resist mandatory theft reporting requirements, citing concerns about government firearm registries or police scrutiny, though the bill frames this as anti-theft protection rather than registration.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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