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

SB 29: Criminal Offenses - As introduced, increases the penalty for civil rights intimidation from a Class D felony to a Class C felony if the victim of the offense was a minor or was selected by the defendant based on the victim’s status as a minister, preacher, pastor, priest, rabbi, or other spiritual leader of a religious belief who has been ordained or otherwise designated in conformity with the customs of a church, temple, or other religious group or organization. - Amends TCA Title 39.

In committee Last action January 15, 2025: Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Judiciary Committee

Plain-language summary

SB 29 is a bill introduced in the Tennessee Senate on January 2, 2025. According to its official title, it concerns: Criminal Offenses - As introduced, increases the penalty for civil rights intimidation from a Class D felony to a Class C felony if the victim of the offense was a minor or was selected by the defendant based on the victim’s status as a minister, preacher, pastor, priest, rabbi, or other spiritual leader of a religious belief who has been ordained or otherwise designated in conformity with the customs of a church, temple, or other religious group or organization. - Amends TCA Title 39. Primary sponsor: Mark Pody (Republican). Most recent recorded action (January 15, 2025): Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Judiciary Committee.

Sponsors

Primary sponsor: Mark Pody (Republican).