A bipartisan group of Democrats and Republicans in the Tennessee House of Representatives is advancing a bill aimed at strengthening penalties for reckless endangerment when such acts occur in what lawmakers are labeling “community terrorism.” House Bill 184, backed by members from both parties, would create a new legal category for certain reckless crimes committed near places where the public — especially children — gathers.
Under current Tennessee law, reckless endangerment can be treated as a misdemeanor or, in some instances involving firearms, a felony. The proposed legislation would elevate reckless endangerment to a Class C felony when the conduct qualifies as “community terrorism.” That designation applies to crimes occurring within recognized gang territories or within 1,000 feet of sensitive locations such as schools, child care facilities, libraries, recreational centers and parks.
If enacted, the bill would impose additional long‑term consequences on those convicted under the new standard. Convicted individuals would face a mandatory restriction on their driver’s license for five years, be barred from entering the geographic area where the offense took place, and be required to wear a global positioning monitoring device. Supporters argue these measures would enhance public safety and help law enforcement track repeat offenders more effectively.
Representative G.A. Hardway, a Democrat from Memphis, spoke in support of the change during a House Judiciary Committee meeting, highlighting what he sees as gaps in current law: “You can do a drive‑by shooting and still keep your driver’s license,” he said. Hardway noted that the state has encountered multiple instances where repeat offenders on probation or parole continue to pose risks, and existing penalties have not provided sufficient deterrence or protection for communities.
The bill’s bipartisan support is reflected in its cosponsors, including House Majority Leader William Lamberth and Republican Representative Clay Doggett of Pulaski. In the Senate, Republican Brent Taylor of Memphis is carrying the companion legislation. House Bill 184 received a positive recommendation from the House Judiciary Committee and is now headed to the Finance, Ways and Means subcommittee for further consideration. Three Democratic members of the Judiciary Committee — Representatives Gabby Salinas, Gloria Johnson and Jason Powell — did not cast votes on the measure.
Supporters of the bill argue that the enhanced penalties and monitoring requirements are critical for addressing violent crime that disproportionately affects neighborhoods near schools and other community spaces. Some criminal justice advocates have raised questions about ensuring the law is applied fairly, but proponents emphasize that the focus is strictly on dangerous conduct that endangers public safety.
As the bill proceeds through committee stages, lawmakers and community leaders will continue debating how best to balance stronger accountability for dangerous behavior with protections against overly broad criminal classifications. If approved by both chambers and signed by the governor, House Bill 184 would become one of the most significant changes in how Tennessee treats reckless endangerment linked to community harm in years.
