TN HB1769

Creates the new criminal offense of "student athlete harassment" for intentionally threatening intercollegiate athletes related to their sports performance or engaging in repeated sports-related bullying or cyber-bullying that causes emotional distress

First violation is a Class A misdemeanor; second or subsequent violations are Class E felonies

Grants student athlete victims a private right of action with minimum statutory damages of $75,000 per intentional violation, plus actual damages, punitive damages, equitable relief, and attorney fees

Requires law enforcement to obtain a warrant, court order, or user consent before social media companies must disclose communications related to harassment investigations

Effective July 1, 2026