Bill > HB0588

This bill creates a new criminal offense in Tennessee related to tampering with firearm identification numbers. Specifically, it makes it a Class E felony for a person to knowingly alter, cover, deface, destroy, or remove a firearm's permanent serial number, manufacturer's identification plate, or other permanent distinguishing number with the intent to conceal or misrepresent the firearm's identity. The bill also makes it illegal to sell, purchase, or possess a firearm that has had its identifying numbers altered or removed. If convicted, the offender will face a mandatory minimum sentence of 180 days in jail, during which they must serve the entire mandatory minimum and cannot be released early. This legislation aims to prevent the obscuring of firearm origins, which can be associated with gun trafficking or attempts to hide a weapon's criminal history. The law will take effect on July 1, 2025, and applies to both regular firearms and antique firearms. By making such actions a Class E felony with a mandatory minimum sentence, the bill seeks to deter individuals from tampering with firearm identification numbers.

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https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0588&ga=114