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HB 1189

Firearms and Ammunition - As introduced, renames enhanced and concealed handgun carry permits as enhanced and concealed firearm carry permits and authorizes a permit holder to carry any firearms, rather than handguns, that the permit holder legally owns or possesses. - Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 7; Title 8; Title 10; Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 49; Title 50; Title 57; Title 67; Title 68 and Title 70.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Rusty Grills

HB 1189 expands Tennessee concealed carry permits to cover all legally owned firearms instead of handguns only, requiring updates across 14 state code sections.

Taken off notice for cal. in Judiciary Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 1189

Legislative bill overview

HB 1189 expands Tennessee's concealed carry permit system by renaming permits to cover all firearms rather than just handguns, and allows permit holders to carry any legally owned firearm they possess. The bill requires amendments across 14 Tennessee statutory codes to align language and regulations with this broader permit scope.

Why is this important

This change would significantly expand what weapons can be legally carried concealed in public under a single permit. Current law restricts concealed carry permits to handguns; this bill would extend coverage to rifles, shotguns, and other firearms, fundamentally altering Tennessee's firearms carry framework and potentially affecting how law enforcement interprets and enforces weapons regulations statewide.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety concerns: Opponents may argue that expanding concealed carry to long guns (rifles/shotguns) increases risks in public spaces and differs from how other states regulate larger firearms
  • Permitting system design: Questions about whether the current permit vetting process, fees, and background check standards are appropriate for all firearm types, not just handguns
  • Implementation complexity: Amendments across 14 separate code titles suggests significant regulatory and administrative changes that could create confusion or enforcement inconsistencies

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

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