Tennessee’s top Republican leaders are threatening to withhold millions of dollars in state funding from Memphis if the city continues with plans to place three local gun control initiatives on the November ballot. The city council approved asking voters if they wanted to require permits to carry handguns, ban possession of AR-15 style rifles, and implement a “red flag” ordinance. Republican lawmakers and Gov. Bill Lee have previously signed off on permitless carry for handguns and banned local cities from implementing their own red flag laws, leading to a conflict with Memphis’ proposed measures.
House Speaker Cameron Sexton and Senate Speaker Randy McNally issued a statement warning Memphis about the consequences of advancing ballot measures that go against the wishes of the Statehouse. Secretary of State Tre Hargett also stated that his office would not approve Memphis’ ballot if it included the gun initiatives, citing the Tennessee Constitution and the preemption of state laws. Memphis received nearly $78 million from the state’s sales tax revenue last year, highlighting the financial impact that withholding state funding could have on the city’s operations.
Mayor Paul Young responded to the Legislature’s ultimatum by stating that guns pose a different risk for Memphis residents, but they need to work with the state to find solutions to restore peace in the community. Despite criticism from white-majority legislators regarding crime rates in Memphis, preliminary figures from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation showed a decline in reported crime for the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. However, trust between the city and the Legislature further deteriorated this year with the passing of legislation to undo police traffic stop reforms set in place after a fatal incident involving officers.
The push for gun control initiatives in Memphis comes amid a rise in violent crime in the city, with record-breaking homicides and burglaries in 2023. Despite concerns from Republican leaders, city council members have expressed a willingness to move forward with the ballot measures to give citizens a voice. The debate between Memphis and the Statehouse reflects broader tensions over gun laws and local government autonomy in Tennessee. The upcoming election in November will be a critical juncture for Memphis residents to have their say on the proposed gun control measures and the city’s relationship with state lawmakers.
