House Bill 1504 establishes a "capitol hill protection zone" around key state government buildings in Tennessee, including the state capitol and various annexes and offices. This new zone is designed to enhance security for state officials, employees, and the public. The bill mandates that the commissioner of safety ensure adequate law enforcement presence in this area, granting officers assigned to the zone concurrent authority with local law enforcement, including the ability to arrest and carry firearms.
Additionally, the bill specifies that law enforcement officers assigned to the capitol hill protection zone must be certified by the peace officers standards and training commission (POST) and receive additional training on laws related to protesting on state property and managing large public gatherings. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.