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Senate raises penalty for assaulting first responders; firefighter who prompted bill recognized
Summary
Senate Bill 1,900, making assault on a first responder a Class E felony with minimum $10,000 fine and 60‑day sentence, passed after sponsor described an incident involving guest Jade Callister, a Crossville firefighter and EMT.
Senate Bill 1,900, explained by Senator Bailey, enhances penalties for assaulting first responders by making the offense a Class E felony with a mandatory minimum fine of $10,000 and a mandatory minimum sentence of 60 days incarceration. The sponsor said the legislation was brought to him by Jade Callister, a firefighter and advanced EMT with Crossville Fire and Rescue, after an assault on Callister in 2025 while rendering aid at a private residence.
Senator Bailey introduced Callister to the Senate and members applauded. The bill was taken up on third and final consideration and passed by recorded vote (Ayes 27, Nays 2). Senators on the floor expressed appreciation for first responders and support for stronger penalties to deter assaults on emergency personnel.
