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Tennessee Legislature Approves Deadly-Force Bills Against Intruders

4/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Tennessee House and Senate approved HB1802 and SB1847, which allow property owners to use deadly force against intruders.
Republican legislators voted for the measure, defeating Democratic opposition.
Rep. Kip Capley said the bill lets law-abiding citizens defend what they have built instead of waiting for authorities.
The bill bars lethal force if the intruder is fleeing with their back turned.

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Story summary

The Tennessee House and Senate approved HB1802 and SB1847, which allow property owners to use deadly force against intruders.
Republican legislators voted for the measure, defeating Democratic opposition.
Rep. Kip Capley said the bill lets law-abiding citizens defend what they have built instead of waiting for authorities.
The bill bars lethal force if the intruder is fleeing with their back turned.