Bill > SB2468

This bill, effective July 1, 2026, strengthens penalties for criminal conduct targeting houses of worship in Tennessee by amending existing laws related to vandalism and interference with religious freedom. Specifically, if vandalism occurs at a house of worship, the sentencing court must impose a fine of at least double the amount of property damage, loss, or restoration expenses incurred by the house of worship. Additionally, the bill redefines and elevates offenses related to intentionally injuring, intimidating, interfering with, or attempting to damage or destroy property at a house of worship, classifying them as felonies, with penalties increasing for repeat offenses. The bill also clarifies definitions for terms like "interfere," "intimidate," and "physical obstruction" in the context of religious freedom and establishes provisions for civil actions and penalties that can be pursued by aggrieved parties or the Attorney General and Reporter.