Here is the cover sheet for the petition sorry I could not post it in the Word Document:
ATTN: Handgun Permit Holders and Boaters
Please help us fix a rule of TVA by signing this Petition. TVA allows permit holders on their “undeveloped lands” but do not allow Permit holders on “Developed” lands. Lands where no work has been done is “undeveloped” but it is not clear. If the land has a gravel parking area this could be “developed” Boat Docks, Campgrounds, etc. are considered “developed” You ARE allowed to have hunting firearms in these areas, but if you have a firearm pertaining to your carry permit your gun WILL BE CONFISCATED, they can also take your vehicle, boat, camper, etc. They may also arrest you for “intent to go armed and/or criminal trespass”, give you a fine, loose your permit forever, and take you to jail just because of a “internal unpublished rule” TVA has under the 1933 TVA Act. Under this Act TVA can make a simple rule to override any state law. TVA is now considering changing it’s policy to allow Permit holders on lands where the public is allowed. We are asking the policy be changed to reflect the National Park Service Policy. That is the purpose of this petition
TVA’s PRESENT POLICY
Possession of firearms for lawful purposes generally is allowed on undeveloped TVA recreation land. Possession of firearms generally is not allowed on developed TVA property such as TVA dam reservations, campgrounds, picnic pavilions, day use areas, and boat ramps, except that firearms usually may be possessed at TVA campgrounds and boat ramps if the possession is associated with an in-season hunting excursion and the firearms are unloaded and properly cased. In specific situations, TVA land may be posted with signs about whether possession of firearms is allowed.
TVA has established these policies in accordance with its authority under the TVA Act to manage the land under its custody and control.
There are no published regulations on the subject. Rather, TVA implements these policies through internal TVA management guidelines and appropriate signage. TVA likely would consider it to be a trespass if someone were to carry a firearm on TVA property in violation of a posted TVA sign or contrary to direction from a TVA Police Officer or land manager.
Mark Hastings
Senior Attorney
Just note that some places like boat docks will have a TWRA sign but it is still TVA property where TVA may not have a sign. You can be arrested in these areas.
This petition is to clear up this problem by asking TVA to change this rule by allowing Permit Holders to be an exemption to the rule by allowing Permit Holders on TVA recreational lands anywhere the general public is allowed.
Please return this petition to me by October 9th so I can present it to TVA. Please mail it to:
Petition
5512 Ashbrook Lane
Maryville, TN 37801
Questions e-mail me at:
n24wheel@comcast.net