Criminal Offenses - As introduced, creates a Class B misdemeanor offense for engaging in harassing behavior against a first responder engaged in official duties under certain circumstances. - Amends TCA Title 39.

HB 158 creates a Class B misdemeanor offense for individuals who knowingly approach within 25 feet of a first responder (including police, firefighters, EMTs, or corrections officers) after receiving a verbal warning, if they intend to impede the responder’s duties, threaten physical harm, or harass them. The bill defines "harass" as causing substantial emotional distress through a course of conduct with no legitimate purpose. It directly affects people who target first responders during official duties, such as during emergency calls or patrols. The law takes effect July 1, 2025, and applies to any situation where a verbal warning was given before the approach.