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House approves expanded liability shield for firearms manufacturers, citing industry jobs and investment
Summary
The House passed Senate Bill 1360, expanding state protections for firearms manufacturers from civil liability, including from foreign judgments. Supporters cited economic impact and existing federal precedents; previous‑question motions advanced to a final vote and the bill passed 72–20.
The House approved legislation expanding state protections that shield firearms manufacturers and dealers from civil liability tied to third‑party criminal activity and from recognition of foreign judgments.
Representative Fritts, the floor sponsor, said the bill builds on 2023 state law aligning with the federal Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act and extends protections to claims originating in foreign courts or other states. Representative French, speaking in support, said Tennessee has a substantial firearms manufacturing sector with thousands of jobs and significant investment from companies including Smith & Wesson and Beretta.
Supporters characterized lawsuits by foreign entities such as Mexico as inappropriate attempts to hold manufacturers responsible for cartel violence; supporters argued the bill protects an industry that contributes jobs and economic investment to Tennessee.
Opponents did not register extended floor debate in the transcript excerpt; a previous‑question motion was called and the House moved to final passage. The clerk recorded 72 ayes and 20 nays on the final count and the presiding officer declared the bill passed.
The bill expands definitions of manufacturers and clarifies bars on recognizing certain out‑of‑state or foreign judgments; the transcript indicates proponents emphasized job numbers and a reported $1.1 billion contribution to the state economy but does not record a fiscal note on the bill’s long‑term effects.
