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HB 2065

Criminal Offenses - As introduced, expands the offense of aggravated criminal trespass to include trespassing that results in the disruption of a religious assembly, which is a Class A misdemeanor. - Amends TCA Title 39.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Chris Todd

Tennessee HB 2065 makes trespassing that disrupts religious assemblies a Class A misdemeanor, enhancing criminal penalties for incidents at houses of worship.

Taken off notice for cal in s/c Finance, Ways, and Means Subcommittee of Finance, Ways, and Means Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 2065

Legislative bill overview

HB 2065 expands Tennessee's aggravated criminal trespass statute to include trespassing that disrupts a religious assembly, classifying such conduct as a Class A misdemeanor. The bill amends the state's criminal code (TCA Title 39) to provide enhanced legal protections specifically for religious gatherings.

Why is this important

Religious institutions have experienced disruptions ranging from protests to safety disturbances, and this bill creates a dedicated legal mechanism to prosecute such incidents more severely than standard trespass. The enhanced penalty (Class A misdemeanor) could result in up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and/or fines, potentially deterring disruptive conduct at houses of worship.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment concerns: Critics may argue the bill could chill protected speech and assembly rights by criminalizing protest activities at religious venues, even peaceful ones
  • Definitional ambiguity: The bill doesn't clearly define what constitutes "disruption," potentially leading to inconsistent enforcement or prosecution of borderline cases
  • Disparate application: Questions about whether similar protections apply equally to secular gatherings or if this creates special legal status for religious institutions

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

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