Print this article A Tennessee bill would create harsher penalties for protesters while offering immunity to some drivers if they unintentionally injure a protester. "This legislation promotes law and order and protects Tennessee communities against violence by safeguarding public roadways and increasing penalties for those who commit these reprehensible acts against innocent people," Republican state Rep. Ron M. Gant said. "These senseless acts have no place in a civil society." State lawmakers will discuss the legislation, House Bill 513, on Tuesday, which Gant and other sponsors say is needed to prevent violence. The legislation would also increase the penalty against protesters who block a roadway, making it a Class E felony, which carries up to six years in prison.