Tennessee lawmakers propose bill protecting drivers who unintentionally hit protesters who jam up streets

The Tennessee legislature is attempting to crack down on protesters by proposing a bill that would make it a felony to obstruct a highway and grant immunity to drivers who unintentionally injure or kill someone blocking a road.

Jamming a highway, street or sidewalk is a misdemeanor in the state, but the proposed legislation would up the punishment to a mandatory $3,000 fine. The proposal also would allow a driver who "unintentionally causes injury or death" to a person obstructing a roadway to be exempt from prosecution.

The proposed bill comes after a year of demonstrations against police brutality and racial injustice across the country, and state Rep. Ron M. Gant, the bill's sponsor, said it would promote "law and order."

Gant did not return phone calls and emails seeking comment.

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