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HB 2428

Criminal Offenses - As introduced, increases the penalty for assaulting a first responder from a Class A misdemeanor with a mandatory fine of $5,000 and a mandatory minimum of 30 days incarceration to a Class E felony with a mandatory fine of $10,000 and a mandatory minimum of 60 days incarceration. - Amends TCA Title 39 and Title 40.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Kip Capley

Tennessee bill elevates first responder assault from misdemeanor to felony, doubling jail minimums to 60 days and fines to $10,000 to enhance criminal penalties.

Rec. for pass; ref to Calendar & Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 2428

Legislative bill overview

HB 2428 escalates the criminal penalty for assaulting a first responder from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony in Tennessee. The bill increases mandatory minimum jail time from 30 to 60 days and doubles the mandatory fine from $5,000 to $10,000, amending state criminal code sections.

Why is this important

First responder assaults have increased nationally, affecting police officers, firefighters, and paramedics. Upgrading to felony status creates permanent criminal records, affects employment prospects, and signals legislative prioritization of first responder safety—though effectiveness depends on enforcement and prosecution practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Mandatory minimums and judicial discretion: Felony classification with 60-day minimums removes judges' ability to consider individual circumstances, potentially leading to disproportionate sentences for minor incidents
  • Defining "assault" and application scope: The bill's effectiveness depends on how "assault" is defined; ambiguous language could result in inconsistent prosecution or capture incidents ranging from minor contact to serious violence
  • Cost and incarceration impacts: Mandatory felony prosecution increases court system burden and corrections costs while potentially overwhelming already-crowded facilities, which may divert resources from serious crimes

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

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