Legislation that would close handgun permit records may have a tougher time in the state senate. Photo credit Blake Farmer/WPLN
Tennesseans could be a bit more discreet about carrying a handgun under a bill approved in the state House Monday night. The legislation would close carry permit records to the public.
The bill gives just one exception. If someone is suspected of being a felon or illegal alien – precluded from having a carry permit – the person’s information could be released. But there has to be some sort of evidence to show the Department of Safety in the form of a government document, such as a warrant or a restraining order.
“Yes or no – basically – as to whether they have a carry permit.”
Rep. William Lamberth’s bill is supported by the Tennessee Firearms Association, which wants to take down an online database. The Commercial Appeal newspaper has a searchable list of the names, birth years and zip codes of the state’s nearly 400,000 permit holders.
The bill easily passed the House but may have trouble in the senate, according to Speaker Ron Ramsey.
“Make it illegal to publish, but not necessarily closing the records. I think the way we have to get the records right now is adequate.”
At this point, getting handgun carry permit records requires showing an ID and paying a fee.
On Air - 90.3 WPLN-FM