Image Credit: Tennessee State Library and Archives & Canva
The Tennessee Conservative [By Olivia Lupia] –
A House Joint Resolution sponsored by Representative Jay Reedy (R-Erin-District 74) aimed at restricting the ability of the legislature to regulate the wearing of firearms has been scheduled for the House Civil Justice Subcommittee for Wednesday, Feb. 26.
HJR0053 would strike language in current law that allows the legislature to “regulate the wearing of arms with a view to prevent crime,” simply leaving the wording as, “citizens of this state have the right to keep and bear arms.”
As this resolution signals intent to amend the state constitution, it must pass through the General Assembly with a simple majority this year followed by a 2/3 majority next session before being referred to the ballot. Should the HJR pass through both legislative sessions, it could be voted upon by the public during the 2026 gubernatorial election, as amendments may only be referred during years with a Governor’s election.
The proposed amendment does not have any action in the Senate, meaning it has not yet been filed for introduction in that chamber. It could be that Senators are awaiting the results of the subcommittee meeting before proceeding with an introduction as they would not file if the bill were killed.
It has gained an additional three House sponsors, Reps. Clay Doggett (R-Pulaski- District 70), Jake McCalmon (R- Franklin- District 63), and Brock Martin (R- Huntingdon- District 79), but does not show a Senate sponsor, which would also account for a lack of action on the Senate side.
To contact members of the House Civil Justice Subcommittee with thoughts on HJR0053, please see the information below:
Rep.lowell.russell@capitol.tn.gov, rep.elaine.davis@capitol.tn.gov, rep.andrew.farmer@capitol.tn.gov, rep.johnny.garrett@capitol.tn.gov, rep.gloria.johnson@capitol.tn.gov, rep.tom.stinnett@capitol.tn.gov, rep.chris.todd@capitol.tn.gov, rep.ron.travis@capitol.tn.gov
