Anti-Protest Legislation: Tennessee

Elevates obstruction of emergency vehicle from Class C to Class B misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $200. Legislation was introduced on February 9, 2017 and was passed on April 19, 2017. The law becomes effective on July 1, 2017.

Grants civil immunity for drivers who injure protesters blocking traffic in a public right-of-way if the driver exercised due care. HB 668 was introduced on February 8, 2017, referred to the Civil Justice Committee on February 13, 2017 and to the Civil Justice Subcommittee on February 18th, 2017.

This bill requires the governing board of each state institution of higher education to adopt a policy on freedom of speech and expression for students of the institution, which must be included in the institution's student code of conduct.The bill was introduced in the House on February 8, 2017 and the Senate on February 9, 2017.