HB 856 / SB 1407

This bill strengthens Tennesseans’ right to self-defense by expanding the justified use of deadly force, ensuring that law-abiding citizens can protect themselves, their families, and their property without legal repercussions. It explicitly allows the use of lethal force to prevent or stop crimes such as burglary, theft, robbery, arson, and even aggravated cruelty to animals. By affirming the right to defend property, this legislation reinforces the principle that citizens should not be forced to retreat when facing imminent threats.

Additionally, the bill provides more explicit legal protections by refining the definition of “deadly force,” ensuring that merely brandishing or displaying a weapon is not automatically considered the use of lethal force. It strengthens Tennessee’s “Stand Your Ground” laws by broadening self-defense provisions to include the protection of property, preventing criminals from exploiting legal gray areas to their advantage. By making these changes, this legislation reaffirms the Second Amendment rights of Tennesseans, ensuring that those who seek to do harm are met with strong legal deterrents while law-abiding citizens are empowered to defend what is rightfully theirs.