On March 26, 2025, Tennessee Firearms Association and Gun Owners of America hosted a joint lobby day at the Tennessee Legislature. We had a great turnout for the event. One thing that was unusually, is that several of the House committees had coincidentally scheduled many of the bills that we were tracking this year for that day. It turned out to be an interesting day in many ways.
For example, news reports documented what most would classify as an assault by Rep. Justin Pearson on Rep. Andrew Farmer that took place in the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee right after the committee voted against Rep. Pearson’s bill. You should watch the video to appreciate the lack of decorum involving not just legislators but guests that now appears so often in the Tennessee Legislature.
Another event in the committee hearings that is worth watching the video is the testimony of Elizabeth Stroecker, the taxpayer-salaried lobbyist for the Governor and the Department of Safety, and also Colonel Matt Perry, both of whom opposed a bill by Rep. Rusty Grills that would convert the handgun permit to a firearms permit. They are joined by a Jimmy Musice, a paid lobbyist for the Tennessee Sheriffs Association and the Chiefs of Police Association. (Start at approximately 20:10) This “axis” of government tyranny seems to always testify against your 2nd Amendment rights and, it appears, they just make things up. The problem is that they are paid with your tax dollars to oppress your civil rights and they do it year in – year out. Pay close attention to the questions from Rep. Chris Todd starting at 26:45.
Taking a broad look, the Tennessee Legislature continues to demonstrate that is does not plan to enact REAL Constitutional Carry in 2025 or to make other changes to repeal existing laws that violate the Second Amendment. The Legislative Leadership – Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, House Speaker Cameron Sexton, Senator Jack Johnson and Representative William Lamberth – have given no indication to TFA this week (they did not even show up to speak with those volunteers who came to Lobby Day) that that will change or even that they plan to keep their oaths to protect your rights under the Constitution.
However, there are a few legislators in both the House and the Senate who are trying to restore your rights by changing or repealing the unconstitutional laws in Tennessee. These efforts that were demonstrated this week or that are expected to be heard next week are included in the reports below. Reports on the bills that have had activity the week of March 24 and those which are scheduled to be heard the week of March 31 are attached. These legislators and their efforts need your support because in general it does not appear that they have the support or encouragement of the Republican Legislative Leadership and certainly not the support of Lame Duck Lee.
It is important for each member and supporter of Tennessee Firearms Association to contact their legislators to let their voices be heard. To aid in that process, Tennessee Firearms Association is providing a letter writing advocacy tool for your use. Please take the time to contact your legislators and, when indicated, committee members on legislation in which you are interested.
- SB441/HB478 – Reduces the “strict liability” in Tennessee’s current “posted properties” law.
- SB 474/HB 387 – Patient Privacy
- SB819/HB554 – Tennessee Firearms Freedom Act
- SB824/HB985 – Offense of possession of a weapon in a building
- SB1227/HB1189 – Enhanced and concealed firearm carry permits
- SB1360/HB873 – Civil actions against arms dealers, manufacturers, and sellers.
- SB1407/HB856 – Lowers the standard for the use of deadly force to protect property.
- HJR53: Constitutional amendment – right to keep and bear arms.
If you are aware of other proposed bills related to the Second Amendment for which you would like to help write a campaign, please reach out to TFA.
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