To the Citizens of Tennessee Senate District 15

Friends,

We had a strong week in the Senate advancing legislation that protects first responders, supports volunteer firefighters, and holds violent offenders accountable.

Here’s what moved forward:

Stronger Protections for First Responders

I’m proud to sponsor Senate Bill 1900 (SB1900), which strengthens penalties for assaulting first responders.

Right now, assaulting a firefighter or emergency responder is only a misdemeanor. This bill increases that offense to a Class E felony, carrying a mandatory minimum $10,000 fine and 60 days in jail. It aligns penalties for assaults against first responders with those already in place for assaults against law enforcement officers.

When someone calls 911, these men and women don’t hesitate – they rush to the emergency. The least we can do is make sure the law stands firmly behind them.

This bill was brought to me by Jade Callister, a full-time firefighter and Advanced EMT with Crossville Fire & Rescue, who was assaulted last year while rendering aid at a private residence. Her experience is a sobering reminder of the risks first responders face in the line of duty.

I’m pleased to share that SB1900 has moved out of the Senate Judiciary Committee and is now headed to the Senate Finance Committee.

Supporting Our Volunteer Firefighters

We also advanced legislation to permanently codify the Volunteer Firefighter Equipment and Training (VFEAT) grant program into law.

In many of our communities, volunteer firefighters are the first ones on scene. They balance full-time jobs, families, and still step up when their neighbors are in danger. This measure ensures continued funding for the equipment and training they need to stay safe and protect our communities.

Tennessee depends on them – and we’re making sure they have what they need.

Learn more about SB1865/HB2531

Holding Domestic Abusers Accountable

The Senate Judiciary Committee also passed legislation requiring individuals convicted of domestic assault, stalking, or related offenses to complete a certified 26-48 week intervention program.

It also closes a loophole that allowed some offenders to later expunge their convictions after reduced charges.

Violence in the home is still violence. This bill makes clear that accountability matters and that victims deserve real protection.

Learn more about SB0673/HB0661

Other Action This Week

In addition, the Senate advanced legislation to:

• Expand Safe Haven surrender options for newborns
• Improve nutrition standards in school meals
• Strengthen protections for sexual assault victims
• Address abuse of the bail system
• Expand access to eye care services
• Improve 911 system efficiency
• Increase respite care access for families caring for loved ones with dementia
• Strengthen housing protections for adults with disabilities
• Protect Tennessee’s blood supply
• Streamline retirement and jail certification procedures
• Advance the constitutional amendment to permanently prohibit a state property tax

As always, my focus remains on protecting our communities, backing the men and women who serve them, and keeping Tennessee strong.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve.

Sincerely,

Senator Paul Bailey