Criminal Offenses - As introduced, removes from the offense of violation of a protective order or restraining order the requirement that the person violating the order must have had an opportunity to appear and be heard in connection with the order of protection or restraining order and that the court must have made specific findings of fact in the order that the person committed a certain offense. - Amends TCA Title 36 and Title 39.

HB 1953 modifies Tennessee's legal standards for violations of protective or restraining orders. It removes two specific requirements: that the person violating the order must have had a prior court hearing opportunity, and that the court must have made detailed factual findings about the violation in the original order. This change simplifies the legal process for prosecuting violations, directly affecting individuals accused of breaching such orders and the courts enforcing them. The bill amends Tennessee Code sections 39-13-113 and 39-17-1316, taking effect July 1, 2026. It focuses on procedural adjustments to enforcement, not substantive policy changes.