Sweetwater officials urge residents to contact lawmakers over bills that would restrict local firearm-discharge rules
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Summary
City staff told the board that proposed state legislation by Adam Lowe and Mark Cochran would limit cities' authority to regulate firearm discharge inside municipal limits, described Sweetwater as a test case, and urged outreach to state representatives and senators to oppose or amend the bills.
City staff warned commissioners about pending state bills that would curtail municipal authority over the discharge of firearms.
Jessica (city staff) told the board that the proposed legislation, which she said is sponsored by Adam Lowe and cosponsored by Mark Cochran, would preempt local ordinances and shift regulatory authority primarily to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. She noted Sweetwater had been "the guinea pig" for earlier disputes and that local leaders had already gone to Nashville to testify.
Why it matters: The bills, as described by staff, would prevent cities from enforcing ordinances that ban or restrict firearms discharge within city limits, a change officials said could create situations where private property owners adjacent to parks or schools could legally discharge weapons.
Staff and commissioners discussed outreach. Jessica said the Tennessee Municipal League is opposing the bills and recommended a targeted notification to local addresses that have reported hunting near city parks, and encouraged residents to contact their state representatives and senators.
Assistant chief Watson and city attorney briefed the board on prior litigation and appeals in which Sweetwater defended its ordinance; staff urged commissioners to consider public outreach so state legislators hear from affected cities.
No formal official action was taken; staff said they would notify stakeholders and consider sending a targeted alert to neighborhoods affected by nearby hunting activity.
