NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Greg Martin, R-Hixson, has introduced legislation strengthening penalties for arson of pregnancy resource centers. House Bill 2260 elevates the offense from a Class C felony to a Class B felony to reflect the serious threat such crimes pose to public safety and community well-being. The proposal also provides a clear […]
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Greg Martin, R-Hixson, has introduced legislation strengthening penalties for arson of pregnancy resource centers.
House Bill 2260 elevates the offense from a Class C felony to a Class B felony to reflect the serious threat such crimes pose to public safety and community well-being.
The proposal also provides a clear statutory definition of a pregnancy resource center, ensuring these facilities are explicitly protected under state law and eliminating ambiguity in enforcement. The definition includes nonprofit organizations that provide counseling, material support, medical assistance and other resources to women and families facing unexpected or difficult pregnancies.
“This legislation makes unequivocally clear that Tennessee has zero tolerance for arson targeting pregnancy resource centers,” said Martin. “It also ensures our law clearly recognizes the severity of these crimes by providing appropriate consequences. These facilities serve as lifelines for women and their families during some of the most vulnerable moments in their lives, and they deserve clear and consistent protection under the law.”
Attacks on pregnancy centers increased around the nation following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022. The high court’s ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization triggered laws in 21 states, including Tennessee, either banning or restricting abortions.
House Bill 2260 is expected to be heard in the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee on March 4. If passed by the Tennessee General Assembly, the legislation would take effect July 1.
State Rep. Greg Martin represents District 26 in the Tennessee House of Representatives, which includes part of Hamilton County.