Tennesseans might have a new way to combat hate speech and intimidation, as state lawmakers have proposed an act aimed at “protecting everyone against crime and extremism.”
The Peace Act, or House Bill 55, was filed Thursday by House Majority Leader William Lamberth, R-Portland, and state Sen. Mark Pody, R-Lebanon.
“Senseless acts of hatred inspired by extremism should concern everyone,” Lamberth said in an email.
The bill seeks to create a series of new misdemeanor crimes for those who litter or trespass in displays of hate or intimidation, obstruct police or violate road safety, according to a news release by House Republican Caucus spokesperson Jennifer Easton.