In 2014 Tennessee enacted an “exception” to the draconian statutory scheme in Tennessee that makes it a crime to “carry with the intent to go armed … a firearm” anywhere, at any time, even in your own home or on your own property. See, TCA 39-17-1307(a) & (e).
Of course, there are statutory “defenses” to that crime such as you are in your home, you are on your own property, you are a judge, or perhaps even that you have a permit. See, TCA 39-17-1308.
But, when Tennessee’s statutory scheme talks about circumstances that are “exceptions” or “defenses” – that means that at trial – perhaps with a jury – the citizen bears the burden of introducing facts and evidence that their conduct was covered by the defense or exception. See, e.g., 39-11-201 to -203. Under Tennessee’s statutory scheme, the investigating officer, the district attorney, the grand jury, the judicial magistrate and/or even the judge at the “preliminary hearing” are not affirmatively required to consider these exceptions or defenses, those are only required to be considered by the “finder of fact”, frequently the jury, at the trial. Of course, that is after the individual has been stopped, detained, questioned, had the firearm seized as evidence, charged, perhaps arrested, booked, and either hired an attorney or had one appointed.
One of these statutory “exceptions” is the vehicle transport law. Being enacted in 2014, it is still relatively new. A question we commonly receive is how does this law work and what firearms does it include? It is not what you might expect.
Today’s TFA’s analysis explores this law and some surprises that many may not expect. For example, can you transport a live rocket or poison gas in a personal vehicle?
TFA’s FREE Crossville Second Amendment event – May 13, 2025
TFA is hosting a free event on the evening of Tuesday, May 13, 2025, in Crossville, Tennessee. This event is to have a discussion and a question and answer session on the status of the Second Amendment in Tennessee.
Location: Cumberland County Community Complex
Address: 1398 Livingston Road, Crossville, Tennessee
Time: Doors open at 6:00pm, Programs start approximately 6:30pm
Registration Link: TFA Registration Page
We have issued invitations to state and local officials representing areas within 100 miles of Crossville. It will be interesting to see, particularly after the Legislature’s actions the last few years, which elected officials will join their constituents for discussions on issues like:
1) Why is it a crime to carry a firearm in Tennessee with the “intent to go armed” even if you are in your own home, on your own property and even if you have a handgun permit?
2) Is Tennessee a Real Constitutional Carry State?
3) Does Tennessee’s existing statutory scheme align with or violate the Second Amendment’s “shall not be infringed” mandate?
4) Can you carry a longarm in Tennessee?
Capacity is limited – please register early.
You do NOT have to be a TFA member to participate.
If you would be interested in having a display booth at the event or in helping to cover the costs of the event, please contact johnharris@tennesseefirearms.com or tina@tennesseefirearms.com
John Harris | Executive Director | Tennessee Firearms Association
Joining and supporting TFA is an investment in the fight to restore our constitutional rights and to fight against politicians who are willing to sell their votes and your rights to whichever business interest gives them the most money!