NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The General Assembly recently passed legislation by State Rep. Kip Capley, R-Summertown, to strengthen the ability of Tennesseans to lawfully defend their property.
House Bill 1802 will allow the use of lethal force if immediately necessary to protect property where a person lawfully resides in certain circumstances, including to prevent arson, burglary, robbery, aggravated robbery or aggravated cruelty to animals. There must be a reasonable belief that there is no safe alternative and that there is an imminent danger of death, serious bodily injury or grave sexual abuse, or that any other use of force would expose someone to these risks.
“No one should be forced to wait and watch while a criminal destroys a lifetime of hard work,” said Capley. “This legislation puts real authority back in citizens’ hands by delivering clear protections and preserving the fundamental freedoms that make our nation great. The Volunteer State will always stand with law-abiding Tennesseans over those that seek to exploit, prey on and dismantle what others have built.”
While Tennessee is a Stand Your Ground and Castle Doctrine state, allowing residents to use deadly force in self-defense and against home intruders, residents are limited to threatening or using non-deadly force against another to protect private property.
Capley’s proposal strengthens Tennesseans’ right to protect their property by establishing clear, reasonable standards.
House Bill 1802 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk to be signed into law. It will take effect July 1.
The 114th General Assembly adjourned sine die on April 23.
State Rep. Kip Capley represents District 71 in the Tennessee House of Representatives, which includes Wayne and part of Hardin, Lawrence and Maury counties.