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The Tennessee Conservative [By Olivia Lupia] –
A bill which ensures tenants are guaranteed the same Second Amendment rights as homeowners in Tennessee was officially signed into law by Governor Lee on March 26 and is set to take effect January 1, 2027.
SB0350/HB0469 states that landlords cannot prohibit a tenant from lawfully possessing, carrying, transporting, or storing firearms or ammunition in their rented residence, vehicle, or points of access to the residence or vehicle. It does allow landlords to require tenants to keep the firearm concealed, holstered, or stored in a carrying container when they move between vehicles and their residence or when the tenant is in common areas like an elevator or shared hallway.
Additionally, if a landlord violates the provisions in the bill, an affected tenant will have the right to bring a suit against the landlord for actual damages, punitive damages, and recovery of attorney’s fees.
The bill contains exclusions including mental health facilities, state agency premises, school property, hospitals, nursing homes, assisted care facilities, and certain independent living facilities.
Democrats in both chambers objected to the legislation throughout its entire journey in the General Assembly, and the bill was passed along party lines in the Senate.
Only one Republican, Rep. John Gillespie, voted “No” in the House’s 73-21 vote.
About the Author: Olivia Lupia is a political refugee from Colorado who now calls Tennessee home. A proud follower of Christ, she views all political happenings through a Biblical lens and aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to educate and equip others. Olivia is an outspoken conservative who has run for local office, managed campaigns, and been highly involved with state & local GOPs, state legislatures, and other grassroots organizations and movements. Olivia can be reached at olivia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.
