Criminal Offenses - As introduced, increases the penalty for civil rights intimidation from a Class D felony to a Class C felony if the victim of the offense was a minor or was selected by the defendant based on the victim’s status as a minister, preacher, pastor, priest, rabbi, or other spiritual leader of a religious belief who has been ordained or otherwise designated in conformity with the customs of a church, temple, or other religious group or organization. - Amends TCA Title 39.

SB 29 increases penalties for civil rights intimidation in Tennessee by elevating the offense from a Class D felony to a Class C felony under two specific circumstances: if the victim is a minor (under 18) or if the defendant targeted the victim specifically because they are a religious leader (e.g., minister, rabbi, or ordained spiritual figure) recognized by their faith community. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-17-309 to create this higher penalty tier while keeping other violations as Class A misdemeanors. It directly affects individuals committing such intimidation against minors or religious leaders, and the law will take effect on July 1, 2025. The change focuses solely on the severity of punishment for these targeted offenses, without altering other aspects of the law.