January 1, Tennessee Lawmakers Move to Expand Property Defense Protections

Wyatt’s Take

• The Tennessee House passed HB 1802 to broaden property defense rights.
• The bill would allow force in response to theft, arson, or trespassing on private land.
• Supporters say the measure protects homeowners, farmers, and livestock owners from major losses.

Representative Kip Capley framed the debate as a question of whether law-abiding citizens or criminals should be trusted.

He said current laws can leave homeowners waiting while their property is destroyed.

"Do we trust law-abiding citizens or do we side with the criminals that prey upon them?"

"If someone is burning down your barn and you’ve only got insurance on $250,000 worth of equipment, but I’ve spent 20 years of my life building $5 million worth of whatever, if I don’t stop him and I shoot him right now, then it’s going to be on me."

Critics say the bill could go too far.

Supporters argue the law should still favor victims over the people destroying their property.

Wyatt Matters

In Middle America, hard work deserves protection, and families should not be left powerless when their livelihoods are threatened.

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