Senate Bill 28 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Section 39-17-308(e)(2), to provide a more comprehensive definition of "communicate" in the context of harassment laws. The bill replaces the existing language with a broader definition that encompasses various forms of communication, including in-person contact, written or printed messages, and electronic means such as telephone, radio, and social media. This updated definition explicitly includes verbal and nonverbal communication, text messages, emails, and other digital formats, ensuring that all forms of communication are considered in harassment cases.

The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, emphasizing the importance of adapting legal definitions to reflect the evolving nature of communication in the digital age. By expanding the definition of "communicate," the legislation aims to enhance the effectiveness of harassment laws in addressing modern forms of harassment that may occur through various electronic platforms.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39-17-308(e)(2), 39-17-308