Tennessee Senate Bill SB2610

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Engrossed: 4/11/24
• Enrolled: 4/17/24
• Passed: 5/1/24
• Chaptered: 5/13/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 13, relative to the support of terrorist organizations.

Impact

The bill significantly alters the legal landscape by introducing new penalties for organizations that violate these regulations. If enacted, the bill classifies a violation of supporting terrorist recruitment or solicitation as a Class E felony, punishable by a fine of up to $3,000 per offense. More serious violations, such as knowingly providing support to a designated terrorist group, would be considered a Class A felony, which carries much harsher penalties. This change may lead to increased scrutiny on organizations operating with public funds, particularly concerning how they allocate resources and engage with the community.

Summary

SB2610 is an act designed to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 39, Chapter 13, concerning the support of terrorist organizations. The bill establishes that it is illegal for entities receiving public funding to provide meeting spaces or platforms for designated terrorist organizations or groups that have been found to engage in terrorism. This provision aims to prevent state resources from being used to foster or support terrorist activities. By outlining specific offenses related to this issue, the bill seeks to enhance public safety and combat terrorism effectively.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB2610 appears to be in favor of strengthening laws against terrorism, as proponents argue that it is essential for enhancing public safety. Supporters underscore the bill's role in safeguarding communities from the threats posed by terrorism and ensuring that tax dollars are not indirectly funding these activities. However, there could be concerns about the bill infringing on free speech and the parameters of what constitutes supportive action towards terrorism, suggesting a potential divide among public opinion regarding its implications.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the definitions provided within the bill regarding what constitutes 'support' of terrorism, and the implications for organizations that might unintentionally engage with groups that the law considers terrorists. Detractors may raise concerns about the limitations this bill places on civic dialogue and engagement, potentially labeling community activism as risky if it intersects with groups that could be deemed as having associations with terrorism. The balance between national security and civil liberties is a contentious point that discussions around SB2610 are likely to center on.