Fear That’s Long Haunted Gun Owners Could Be Erased In Red State
Lummi/Public/Sofía
Lawmakers in Tennessee approved a measure Thursday that would broaden when deadly force can be used, extending it beyond personal self-defense to cover certain property-related crimes. The proposal cleared both chambers of the Republican-led state Legislature along party lines and now heads to the governor for consideration.
Under the bill, individuals could be justified in using deadly force in specific situations involving offenses such as arson, burglary, robbery, or animal cruelty. Backers say the change addresses concerns among gun owners who feel current law forces them to hesitate while their property is being damaged or stolen.
During debate, Republican state Rep. Kip Capley argued that existing rules place too much burden on victims. He said people are effectively expected to hold back, even when someone is actively destroying or taking what they’ve spent years building.
Traditionally, most states only permit deadly force when someone reasonably believes they are facing a serious threat of harm or death. Legal standards generally require that the response be proportional to an immediate danger. For example, using a firearm against a non-lethal threat would typically be seen as excessive under long-standing self-defense principles.
Gun rights advocates signaled they will work to inform residents about how the new law could affect them. Michael McGonigle of the United States Concealed Carry Association said the group supports the right of citizens to defend themselves and their homes, while emphasizing the importance of understanding state laws and handling firearms responsibly.
Republican Gov. Bill Lee has not publicly commented on the measure, which is awaiting his decision.
Critics, including Democratic lawmakers, argue the bill lowers the bar too far and risks escalating violence over property disputes. State Rep. Justin Pearson said the proposal changes a long-standing principle that deadly force should only be used when human life is in immediate danger, not to protect possessions.
The debate also grew heated at times. Democratic state Rep. Justin Jones criticized the bill’s sponsor in personal terms during floor remarks and was ruled out of order for violating chamber rules.
Pearson and Jones had previously drawn national attention in 2023 when they were briefly expelled from the Legislature following a protest inside the state capitol. The demonstration came shortly after a deadly school shooting in Nashville, where a gunman killed three children and three adults before being shot by police.
The National Rifle Association did not provide comment on the legislation.
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