Tennessee · 114th Regular Session (2025-2026) · Bill

HB 1444: Criminal Offenses - As introduced, increases the penalty for aggravated cruelty to animals from a Class E felony to a Class D felony; adds aggravated cruelty to animals as an offense for which a juvenile may be classified as a serious youthful offender. - Amends TCA Title 37 and Title 39.

In committee Last action April 7, 2026: Sponsor(s) Added.

Plain-language summary

HB 1444 is a bill introduced in the Tennessee House on September 16, 2025. According to its official title, it concerns: Criminal Offenses - As introduced, increases the penalty for aggravated cruelty to animals from a Class E felony to a Class D felony; adds aggravated cruelty to animals as an offense for which a juvenile may be classified as a serious youthful offender. - Amends TCA Title 37 and Title 39. Primary sponsor: John Gillespie (Republican). Most recent recorded action (April 7, 2026): Sponsor(s) Added.

HB 1444: Criminal Offenses - As introduced, increases the penalty for aggravated cruelty to animals from a Class E felony to a Class D felony; adds aggravated cruelty to animals as an offense for which a juvenile may be classified as a serious youthful offender. - Amends TCA Title 37 and Title 39.

Plain-language summary

Sponsors