Tennessee now has a “Permit Less Handgun Permit” provision

Jackson’s Chief of Police Julian Wiser would like the public to know that effective July 1, 2021, Tennessee now has a “Permit Less Handgun Permit” provision that allows any person to carry a handgun openly or concealed, if they meet certain requirements. Those requirements are;

The person must be over 21 years of age or 18 if they are in the military or have been in the military and have been honorably discharged.

The person must lawfully possess the handgun.

The person is in a place where they the legal right to be

Even with the new handgun carry provision, there are still limitations on where or when a person is able to carry a handgun. Some examples of when a person cannot carry a handgun include but are not limited to:

Judicial buildings

Federal Buildings

Private schools where posted

Public schools or places in use by the school

Public recreation buildings, civic centers

When you are under the influence of alcohol

Any location posted or prohibited by law

There are also a list of disqualifications under Federal and State laws that would prohibit a person from possessing a firearm and they are not able to carry a handgun.

Also, with the new Permit Less Handgun Carry, a person is still more restricted on the locations of their ability to carry a handgun than with a State of Tennessee Handgun or enhanced handgun permit, such as parks and campgrounds.

Additionally, the penalties for the theft of a firearm have been increased. Now, any theft of a firearm is a class E felony and a defendant will have to serve 180 days in confinement upon conviction.

Additionally, the theft of a firearm from a vehicle is an enhancement factor sentencing.