Tennessee lawmaker proposes gun transfer restrictions after Antioch Waffle House shooting

In a poignant discussion during the Senate Judiciary Committee meeting on April 8, 2025, lawmakers addressed a proposed bill aimed at enhancing gun safety in Tennessee, particularly in relation to individuals with mental health issues. The legislation seeks to prevent the sale or transfer of firearms to anyone known to have been a patient in a mental health institution within the last five years, a move inspired by the tragic 2018 Waffle House shooting in Antioch, where four lives were lost.

The bill's sponsor shared a heart-wrenching quote from a victim's family member, emphasizing the lasting impact of such tragedies on families. "Every morning I wake up with the same thought. My baby is gone," the quote read, underscoring the emotional weight behind the proposed legislation. The sponsor highlighted that the shooter in the Waffle House incident had previously been committed to a mental institution and had regained access to firearms through a family member, despite being deemed unfit to possess them.

This proposed law aims to establish a similar standard to existing regulations in Illinois, which penalize individuals who knowingly provide firearms to those who should not have them due to mental health concerns. The legislation is framed not as an infringement on Second Amendment rights but as a necessary measure to ensure public safety. The sponsor stressed that the goal is to protect the community's right to enjoy public spaces without fear of gun violence from individuals who should not have access to firearms.

As the committee deliberated, the discussion reflected a broader commitment to addressing gun violence while balancing the rights of responsible gun owners. The proposed bill is seen as a step towards preventing future tragedies and ensuring that those who are aware of a person's mental health history are held accountable for their actions regarding firearm transfers.

The committee's next steps will involve further discussions and potential amendments as lawmakers continue to navigate this sensitive and critical issue impacting the safety of Tennessee residents.