State Senator Joey Hensley has provided an overview of the legislation that was enacted during the 114th General Assembly. Among the significant measures approved by lawmakers is a resolution endorsing the federal Constitutional Carry Reciprocity Act. This act aims to ensure that concealed carry permits and rights are recognized across the nation. Currently, Tennessee’s concealed carry permit is not acknowledged in 14 states, including Illinois.
In a move to enhance privacy protections, the General Assembly has toughened penalties related to unlawful photography. It is now classified as a Class E felony to knowingly take photographs of individuals without their consent in a manner that is deemed offensive or embarrassing. The penalties increase if the image is disseminated, if the victim is under the age of 13, or if the perpetrator holds a position of authority over the victim. Those convicted under this law will be required to register as sexual offenders.
Legislation has also been introduced to combat online harassment and threats. The act of doxxing, which involves publicly revealing private information about an individual, is now classified as a Class B misdemeanor. If such actions result in harm to an individual, the offense escalates to a Class A misdemeanor. Furthermore, threats of mass violence directed at schools, churches, government buildings, or public events have been elevated from a Class E felony to a Class D felony, particularly if the offender has a history of similar violations.
Additionally, the General Assembly has established new penalties for impersonating rideshare drivers. Misrepresenting oneself as a rideshare operator is now categorized as a Class B misdemeanor, and if this act is committed in conjunction with another felony, it escalates to a Class E felony.
The legislation also addresses unlawful protest activities, which include unauthorized signage on highways, civil rights intimidation through littering or trespassing, providing false identification to law enforcement, approaching an officer within 25 feet after being instructed to stop, and transporting individuals in the cargo area of a box truck.
Moreover, parking or stopping a vehicle in a manner that obstructs traffic has been designated as a Class C misdemeanor, which can be elevated to a Class B misdemeanor if it contributes to an accident. Lastly, a new law has been enacted to prohibit the use of license plate flippers. Law enforcement officials are authorized to seize these devices and impound vehicles when necessary, although they must allow the owner to remove the device if they are present at the time.