Senate committee approves 'halo' buffer bill to protect first responders; one senator records a no vote

Senate Bill 104, introduced by Senator Matt Nunn, passed the committee with a favorable recommendation after a protracted discussion over definitions, penalties and potential effects on bystanders and recording by citizens.

Nunn said the bill — often called a "halo" act in testimony — establishes a 25‑foot safety buffer around first responders performing official duties and creates a warning/penalty escalation: a person ordered to step back who repeatedly ignores warnings may face misdemeanor charges with escalating penalties on subsequent offenses, culminating in a felony for a fourth offense. "This bill creates a 25‑foot safety barrier... so they can go home safely every day," Nunn said.

Several senators pressed the sponsor on data and definitions. Senator Higdon asked whether felony penalties were appropriate and whether the sponsor had consulted the judiciary chair; Nunn said he had consulted staff but not the judiciary chairman and defended escalation as a deterrent given repeat offenders. Senator Burke observed that state law already prohibits intentionally obstructing or disrupting emergency responders and asked how often that statute has been used; the sponsor replied he did not have citation statistics but relayed anecdotal reports from EMTs that interference is frequent in some areas.

The bill includes a statutory definition of "harass" intended to reduce ambiguity: in the bill text the sponsor said "harass means to intentionally engage in a course of conduct directed at a first responder which causes or is intended to cause substantial emotional distress... and serves no legitimate purpose." Supporters, including Senator Richardson, cited a Hopkinsville case in which shouting by bystanders impeded EMS communication and said a clear perimeter would reduce such interference.

Opponents raised First Amendment and practical concerns. Senator Clemons and others said the perimeter could limit lawful filming or peaceful observers who are not interfering; proponents replied the bill contains repeated warning opportunities before criminal penalties would attach.

In the roll call that followed, most senators voted to report the bill favorably; Senator Clemons was recorded as voting "No." The committee announced that Senate Bill 104 passed with a favorable recommendation and will advance.

Chair's announcements at the end of the meeting included Military Kids Day on Thursday, Feb. 19, with Donna Holliday listed as the contact for questions.