Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

Tennessee Senate Bill SB0030

Introduced

1/2/25

Engrossed

4/14/25

Enrolled

4/23/25

Passed

5/9/25

Chaptered

5/15/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39; Title 40; Title 54 and Title 55, relative to criminal offenses.

Impact

The proposed amendments impact existing statutes concerning criminal behavior and public safety in Tennessee. By categorizing certain types of intimidation and littering under criminal offenses, the legislation is expected to deter individuals from engaging in actions that hinder the exercise of constitutional rights. Furthermore, by classifying violations under the framework of misdemeanors and felonies, the bill adds a layer of accountability and potential penalties for offenders, which may serve to enhance community safety and uphold the law.

Summary

Senate Bill 30 (SB0030) aims to amend various titles within the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically addressing criminal offenses. The bill introduces new provisions related to littering and trespassing with malicious intent, thereby enhancing the legal framework for tackling such offenses. Notably, it specifies that littering or trespassing with the intent to unlawfully intimidate someone from exercising a right is considered a serious offense. Under this legislation, these actions will be classified as a Class A misdemeanor, highlighting the state's commitment to maintaining public order and individuals' rights.

Contention

While proponents of SB0030 argue for its necessity in safeguarding individuals' rights against intimidation, there may be concerns regarding the implications for civil liberties. Critics could potentially voice worries about the definitions of 'malicious intent' and 'trespassing', fearing that overly broad interpretations could lead to misuse of the law against peaceful protests or demonstrations. Additionally, the changes regarding police authority to request identification may evoke debates about personal privacy rights and compliance during law enforcement encounters.

Latest SB0030 Activity

Companion Bills

TN HB0055

Crossfiled AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39; Title 40; Title 54 and Title 55, relative to criminal offenses.

Similar Bills

TN HB0992

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 1, Chapter 3; Section 2-3-107; Title 4, Chapter 29, Part 2; Section 8-35-242; Section 8-38-126; Section 9-8-203; Section 10-7-504; Section 37-1-408 and Title 49, relative to charter schools.

TN SB1014

TN HB0074

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 2; Title 4; Title 8; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 40; Title 41; Title 49; Title 50; Title 54; Title 55; Title 62; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to high school equivalency credentials.

TN SB0255

TN HB0321

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 1; Title 2; Title 3; Title 4; Title 5; Title 7; Title 8; Title 9; Title 10; Title 11; Title 12; Title 13; Title 16; Title 20; Title 22; Title 24; Title 31; Title 33; Title 36; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 43; Title 44; Title 45; Title 47; Title 48; Title 49; Title 50; Title 53; Title 54; Title 55; Title 56; Title 61; Title 62; Title 63; Title 64; Title 65; Title 66; Title 67; Title 68; Title 69 and Title 71, relative to electronic transmissions.