House Republicans Strengthen Firearms Penalties For Violent Felons And Drug Offenders
(NASHVILLE) — This week, Republican lawmakers passed legislation sponsored by State Representative Jimmy Eldridge (R-Jackson) that strengthens Tennessee’s firearms possession penalties for violent felons and convicted drug offenders.
House Bill 452 was initiated by the Memphis Shelby Crime Commission. It increases the penalties on individuals with prior convictions for violent crimes who unlawfully possess a firearm from a Class C felony to Class B status. The legislation also strengthens penalties for individuals with prior felony drug offenses who possess firearms from Class D status to a Class C offense.
Currently, a Class C penalty carries a prison length of 3-15 years and a fine of up to $10,000. Class B penalties carry a length of 8-30 years, as well as a fine of up to $25,000. A Class D offense in Tennessee carries a prison length of 2-12 years and a fine of up to $5,000.
“In recent years, we’ve worked hard to curb violent crime and drug abuse across our state,” said Chairman Eldridge. “House Bill 452 strengthens existing penalties and will help members of our local law enforcement communities deter repeat offenders, which will make our communities safer.”
The full text of House Bill 452 can be accessed by visiting the Tennessee General Assembly website at: http://www.capitol.tn.gov/Bills/110/Bill/HB0452.pdf
Jimmy Eldridge is a member of the House Local Government and House Calendar & Rules Committee. He is also a member of the House Consumer & Human Resources Committee and Subcommittee. Eldridge lives in Jackson and represents House District 73, which is part of Madison County. He can be reached by email at: Rep.Jimmy.Eldridge@capitol.tn.gov or by calling (615) 741-7475.
