AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, relative to the discharge of a firearm.

New gunfire limits at public gatherings

Beginning July 1, 2026, Tennessee makes certain reckless gunshots a Class A misdemeanor at public gatherings or events. At least 25 people must be present. The rule covers shots into the air, ground, water, or an object near the shooter. Exceptions cover state and local officers performing official duties, including animal control, rabies control, and state wildlife officers. Military members performing official duties are exempt when their orders require carrying a firearm. Exceptions also cover shots required by permits during state-established open seasons and nuisance-wildlife control under state or federal wildlife permits. Shots on public or private sport shooting range property are exempt. Animal-defense exceptions cover protecting yourself or another person from an animal attack, or a domestic animal from an imminent or ongoing attack. In either case, a reasonable person must believe deadly force is immediately necessary and reasonable. The law also adds this section to the exemption list in Tennessee's handgun carry permit rules.