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HB 1802

Firearms and Ammunition - As introduced, lowers the standard for the use of deadly force to protect property. - Amends TCA Title 39.

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

HB 1802 expands Tennessee's deadly force law to permit lethal force for protecting property, not just self-defense, potentially authorizing lethal responses to property crimes.

H. Placed on Regular Calendar for 4/22/2026
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Bill Summary · HB 1802

Legislative bill overview

HB 1802 proposes to amend Tennessee law (TCA Title 39) to lower the legal threshold for when a person can use deadly force to protect property rather than just their person. Currently, Tennessee law generally permits deadly force only in self-defense against threats to human life; this bill would expand that justification to include protection of property.

Why is this important

This change would significantly alter the legal boundaries of self-defense law by potentially authorizing lethal responses to property crimes like theft or vandalism. The practical impact could range from protecting against home invasions and burglaries to confrontations over vehicles or other valuables, with serious consequences for both property owners and potential intruders.

Potential points of contention

  • Proportionality concerns: Using deadly force against property crimes may be considered excessive by critics, as property can be replaced but human life cannot
  • Public safety implications: Expanding deadly force authorization could increase confrontations that escalate to lethal outcomes, potentially affecting both criminals and innocent bystanders
  • Liability and prosecution: Ambiguity about what constitutes property-protection scenarios could create legal gray areas and litigation over whether force was justified in specific incidents
  • Intersection with castle doctrine: The bill's relationship to existing Tennessee "castle doctrine" and stand-your-ground laws needs clarification to avoid contradictions

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

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