WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 1318

Handgun Permits - As enacted, clarifies that an applicant who has a DUI conviction that occurred within five years from the date of application or renewal is not eligible for an enhanced handgun carry permit; lowers the age for an applicant for an enhanced handgun carry permit from 21 to 18 if other eligibility requirements for issuance of the permit are met. - Amends TCA Title 39 and Title 40.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee lowers handgun permit eligibility age to 18 while barring applicants with DUI convictions from the past five years.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 356
#handgunpermits
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1318

Legislative bill overview

SB 1318 modifies Tennessee's enhanced handgun carry permit requirements by lowering the minimum age from 21 to 18 years old and adding a disqualification for applicants with DUI convictions within five years of application or renewal. The bill became law in May 2025.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects who can legally carry handguns in Tennessee and balances two competing policy objectives: expanding Second Amendment access to younger adults while implementing a safety screening mechanism related to impaired judgment. The age reduction potentially affects tens of thousands of Tennesseans, while the DUI provision addresses public safety concerns about individuals with recent substance-related convictions.

Potential points of contention

  • Age eligibility debate: Lowering the permit age to 18 aligns with voting and military service eligibility but critics argue brain development and impulse control continue into the mid-20s
  • DUI disqualification scope: A five-year lookback period may be viewed as either too restrictive (affecting rehabilitation potential) or too lenient (allowing individuals with recent substance abuse issues to carry weapons)
  • Enforcement and consistency: Questions about how agencies will verify DUI conviction timing and whether applicants can challenge or appeal disqualifications based on this criterion

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

Sign in to ask a question.