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

HB 1656: Criminal Offenses - As introduced, increases the penalty for assault against a firefighter, emergency services personnel, or other person who responds to calls for emergency assistance from a Class A misdemeanor with a mandatory minimum 30-day sentence and $5,000 fine to a Class E felony with a mandatory minimum 60-day sentence and $10,000 fine. - Amends TCA Title 39 and Title 40.

In committee Last action January 21, 2026: P2C, ref. to Judiciary Committee

Plain-language summary

HB 1656 is a bill introduced in the Tennessee House on January 14, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: Criminal Offenses - As introduced, increases the penalty for assault against a firefighter, emergency services personnel, or other person who responds to calls for emergency assistance from a Class A misdemeanor with a mandatory minimum 30-day sentence and $5,000 fine to a Class E felony with a mandatory minimum 60-day sentence and $10,000 fine. - Amends TCA Title 39 and Title 40. Primary sponsor: Kip Capley (Republican). Most recent recorded action (January 21, 2026): P2C, ref. to Judiciary Committee.

Sponsors

Primary sponsor: Kip Capley (Republican).