Senate Bill 1847, also known as House Bill 1802, amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 39-11-614, which pertains to the defense of property. The bill modifies the existing law by deleting subsection (c) and replacing it with a new provision that outlines when a person is justified in using deadly force against another individual. Under the new language, a person may use deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent or terminate various criminal actions, such as trespass, arson, or robbery, and if they believe that no other means can protect their property or that using non-lethal force would put themselves or others at risk of serious harm.

Additionally, the bill specifies that a person is not justified in using deadly force against another individual if that individual is facing away from them. This change aims to clarify the circumstances under which deadly force can be legally employed in defense of property, emphasizing the necessity of immediate threat and the positioning of the individuals involved. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law, prioritizing public welfare.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39-11-614