SB 2379

This bill creates a Class A misdemeanor offense for a person who , on or after July 1, 2026, recklessly discharges a firearm into the air, the ground, a body of water, or an object in proximity to the person if the firearm is discharged at a place where other people are or may be present. However, this offense does not apply if the firearm is discharged in any of the following situations:  By an officer of this state, or a county, city, or town, charged with the enforcement of the laws of this state, when in the discharge of the officer's official duties .  By persons employed by the army, air force, navy, space force, coast guard, or marine service of the United States or a member of the Tennessee national guard when in the discharge of the person's official duties and acting under orders requiring the person to carry a firearm .  As required by an animal control officer, rabies control officer, or Tennessee wildlife resources agency (TWRA) officer when in the discharge of the officer's official duties .  To lawfully take wildlife by permit or license during an open season established by the Tennessee wildlife resources agency .  For the control of nuisance wildlife by permit from the TWRA or the United States fish and wildlife service .  On the property of a public or privately owned sport shooting range .  In defense of self or another person against an animal attack if a reasonable person would believe that deadly force against the animal is immediately necessary and reasonable under the circumstances to protect oneself or the other person .  In defense of a domestic animal against an imminent or ongoing animal attack if a reasonable person would believe that deadly force against the animal is immediately necessary and reasonable under the circumstances to protect the domestic animal from attack. HANDGUN SAFETY COURSES Present law requires t he department of safety to require an applicant for a handgun carry permit to submit proof of the successful completion of a department approved handgun safety course within one year of the date of application. Beginning July 1, 2026, this bill requires all department-approved handgun safety courses to include instruction on the offense described above.