Bill > HB2279

This bill, known as the "Crush Transnational Repression in Tennessee Act," aims to protect Tennessee residents from foreign governments or terrorist organizations attempting to control or influence their behavior outside of those foreign entities' own territories. It defines "transnational repression" as actions by agents of foreign adversaries (countries listed in federal regulations) or foreign terrorist organizations (groups designated by the U.S. State Department or Treasury) to harass, intimidate, censor, or otherwise extend their control over individuals in Tennessee. The bill enhances criminal penalties for offenses committed by such agents with the intent to coerce actions, force someone to leave the U.S., prevent lawful activities like free speech or peaceful assembly, or retaliate for such activities. It also declares any state court, arbitration, tribunal, or administrative agency ruling, or any contract, based on foreign law void if it infringes on constitutional rights, and makes it a felony to interfere with the investigation of offenses under foreign law without proper approval. Furthermore, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) is authorized to develop and provide training for law enforcement on recognizing and responding to transnational repression, and to launch a public awareness campaign to inform citizens on how to identify and report such incidents, including creating a centralized reporting website and providing annual reports on complaints. Finally, state agencies are required to incorporate information on transnational repression into their policies and procedures and provide direct complaint channels.

Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/Default?BillNumber=HB2279&ga=114