Tennessee Senate Bill SB7002

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/16/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 3 and Title 40, Chapter 11, relative to mass violence.

Impact

If enacted, SB7002 will enhance public safety laws in Tennessee by imposing felony charges for individuals found guilty of threatening mass violence. Specifically, threats targeting certain locations like schools, places of worship, and public events will be classified as a Class D felony, while other threats may be considered a Class E felony. This classification is aimed at ensuring stricter consequences for those who make threats that induce fear or panic, thus potentially deterring such behaviors in the future.

Summary

Senate Bill 7002 aims to amend the Tennessee Code concerning mass violence by defining mass violence and establishing penalties for threatening such acts. The bill outlines that a person commits an offense if they recklessly use any means of communication to threaten mass violence, which is defined as actions likely to cause serious bodily injury or death to two or more persons. The bill provides a framework for determining the classification of the offense based on various factors, including the location of the threat and the defendant’s prior convictions.

Contention

The bill has sparked discussions surrounding its implications for free speech and the potential for overreach. Proponents argue that it is necessary to protect communities from the increasing realities of threats and violence, particularly in public spaces where many gather. However, critics raise concerns that broad definitions and penalties could lead to abuses, particularly regarding minor or non-serious comments that might be interpreted as threats. The provisions for risk assessment before bail release might also be seen as hurdles that could infringe on certain rights during legal proceedings.