Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen has signed into law the National Rifle Association (NRA)-backed legislation to prevent the confiscation of firearms and ammunition from law-abiding Tennesseans during a future state of emergency or natural disaster, as happened in New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

"In passing this law, Tennessee's state legislature and Gov. Bredesen acted to protect the rights of law-abiding gun owners when their rights are most vital," said Chris W. Cox, NRA's chief lobbyist. "During a time when there is no 9-1-1 or police upon which to rely, honest citizens will never again have to worry that their only means of self protection from looters or thugs will be taken away by the government."

After Hurricane Katrina, the New Orleans Police Superintendent issued orders to confiscate all firearms- including those from law-abiding residents. With that one order, he stripped the only means of self-protection innocent citizens had during a time of widespread civil disorder. This legislation guarantees those actions will never happen in Tennessee.

Senate Bill 1597 passed unanimously in both the House and Senate, proving that Second Amendment rights during a state of emergency are highly regarded by Tennessee lawmakers.

"I would also like to recognize the efforts of the bill's sponsors, State Senator Mark Norris (R-32) and State Representatives Chris Crider (R-79) and Dolores Gresham (R-94)," said Cox. "No one has the right to disarm lawful gun owners barring them from protecting themselves and their families during an emergency, and if forced to evacuate, the law-abiding have the right to transport their firearms to a safe place."

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