Bill > HB0683

This bill creates an "enhanced armed guard" certification for security guards in Tennessee, specifically allowing experienced law enforcement officers or military veterans to carry rifles and shotguns while performing security services under strict conditions. To obtain this enhanced certification, applicants must have at least five years of full-time law enforcement experience or four years of active military duty in a combat arms specialty, pass a comprehensive background check including fingerprint and psychological evaluations, and complete a 16-hour training course approved by the Tennessee insurance commissioner. The certification, which expires annually and requires renewal through an 8-hour requalification course, places significant restrictions on when and how these enhanced guards can deploy rifles or shotguns, mandating that such weapons can only be used when a legitimate threat is perceived to be imminent and must be securely stored at all other times. The bill aims to provide a structured, rigorous process for highly experienced security professionals to carry long guns while maintaining strict safety and accountability standards, with the commissioner of commerce and insurance responsible for establishing and overseeing the enhanced armed guard program.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Government Affairs

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0683&ga=114