Criminal Offenses - As introduced, increases the penalty for assault against a firefighter, emergency services personnel, or other person who responds to calls for emergency assistance from a Class A misdemeanor with a mandatory minimum 30-day sentence and $5,000 fine to a Class E felony with a mandatory minimum 60-day sentence and $10,000 fine. - Amends TCA Title 39 and Title 40.

HB 1656 increases penalties for assaulting firefighters, emergency services personnel, or other first responders who answer emergency calls. It changes the offense from a Class A misdemeanor (with a 30-day minimum jail term and $5,000 fine) to a Class E felony (with a 60-day minimum sentence and $10,000 fine). The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Titles 39 and 40 and will take effect on July 1, 2026. This change specifically targets individuals who commit violence against emergency personnel during their duties.