House Bill 7091 aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding threats of mass violence in Tennessee. The bill introduces a new section to Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 13, Part 1, which establishes that a person commits an offense if they knowingly threaten to commit an act of mass violence against another individual, causing fear. Violations of this provision are classified as a Class E felony, but if the threat involves carrying a firearm (other than a handgun) in specific contexts—such as near public assemblies or adult cabaret entertainment—it is considered a hate crime and is punishable one classification higher.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 39-17-1308(b) by deleting the phrase "persons described in 39-17-1307(b)(1)" and replacing it with "persons being prosecuted for a violation of Section 1 or persons described in 39-17-1307(b)(1)." This change clarifies the scope of individuals covered under the law. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2023, emphasizing the urgency of addressing threats of mass violence in the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39-17-1308(b), 39-17-1308