Bill > HB0159

This bill amends Tennessee's reckless endangerment law to increase criminal penalties for discharging a firearm into a motor vehicle. Currently, such an act is a Class E felony, but the proposed legislation would upgrade the offense to a Class C felony if the vehicle is occupied, and to a Class D felony if the vehicle is unoccupied. The bill specifically modifies Section 39-13-103(b)(3) of Tennessee's legal code, which defines the criminal classification for reckless endangerment involving firearms. By elevating the severity of the offense, the legislation aims to deter potentially deadly acts of recklessness and provide enhanced legal consequences for individuals who discharge firearms into vehicles. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving legal authorities and the public time to prepare for the new penalty structure. The bill reflects a legislative approach to addressing gun-related safety concerns by imposing stricter punishments for dangerous behaviors involving firearms.

Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0159&ga=114