House Bill 216 aims to streamline the process for property owners to regain possession of unlawfully occupied commercial real estate in Tennessee. The bill introduces a new section to the Tennessee Code Annotated, defining "immediate family member" and outlining the conditions under which a property owner or their authorized agent can request the immediate removal of unauthorized occupants. Key conditions include that the property must be commercial, not open to the public at the time of unlawful entry, and that the unauthorized person is neither a tenant nor an immediate family member of the property owner. The property owner must submit a verified complaint to the county sheriff, who is then required to serve a notice to vacate and restore possession to the owner.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the sheriff is entitled to a fee for serving the notice and may charge for keeping the peace during the removal process. It also provides for civil recourse for individuals wrongfully removed, allowing them to seek damages and recover possession of the property. The bill clarifies that it does not limit the rights of property owners or law enforcement to address criminal activities related to unlawful occupancy. This act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.