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SB 1022

Criminal Offenses - As introduced, expands "law enforcement officer" to include a correctional officer employed by a county jail, the department of correction, or a private prison contractor and a probation or parole officer employed by the department of correction or a private probation provider for purposes of the offense of assault against a law enforcement officer. - Amends TCA Title 39, Chapter 13, Part 1.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee bill expands assault-on-officer protections to include jail, corrections, and probation officers, increasing criminal penalties for attacks on these professionals.

Placed on Senate Finance, Ways, and Means Committee calendar for 4/21/2026
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Bill Summary · SB 1022

Legislative bill overview

SB 1022 expands the legal definition of "law enforcement officer" under Tennessee's assault statutes to include correctional officers, probation officers, and parole officers. This expansion means assaults against these professionals would be prosecuted under enhanced penalties currently reserved for attacks on police officers.

Why is this important

Correctional and probation/parole officers face workplace violence but currently lack the same legal protections as sworn law enforcement. This bill would increase criminal penalties for assaults against these professionals, potentially serving as both a deterrent and recognition of occupational hazard. The distinction matters because assaults on protected officers typically carry felony charges with stricter sentences than simple assault.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope expansion concerns: Critics may argue the definition becomes too broad, potentially covering administrative staff or private contractors with varying training standards and accountability mechanisms
  • Private prison contractor inclusion: The inclusion of private prison employees raises questions about whether private entities should receive the same legal protections as public officials, and whether oversight adequacy matches that of state corrections
  • Prosecution consistency: Expanding protected categories without corresponding training or certification standards could create inconsistent application across jurisdictions, particularly with private probation providers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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