Tennessee: Governor Bill Lee Signs Self-Defense Legislation into Law

Last week, Governor Bill Lee signed important self-defense legislation, House Bill 1264 /Senate Bill 705, into law.

House Bill 1264 /Senate Bill 705, sponsored by Representative Andy Holt and Senator John Stevens, would create a new concealed carry permit in Tennessee that would make it more accessible for Tennesseans to exercise their right to self-defense.  The new permit will allow for concealed carry only and will not apply to higher education campuses.  Further, the training required in the bill can be a hunter education course or firearm safety course, and can be taken online.  The existing Handgun Carry Permit will remain available with the eligibility requirements unchanged and still with the ability to carry on higher education campuses.  By creating a new concealed carry permit, Tennesseans are able to choose which permit option is best for them and their lifestyle in order to exercise their constitutional right to self-defense.

Thank you to NRA Members and Second Amendment supporters who contacted their legislators in support of this important legislation.  Also, thank you to Governor Bill Lee for signing it, and those legislators who voted in support of the measure.​