Jade Callister was the voice behind a bill, sponsored by Senator Paul Bailey that will protect emergecny service workers. Photo submitted.
What started with a single moment on a call has now turned into statewide legislation.
A bill aimed at strengthening protections for first responders across Tennessee is moving forward after receiving strong support in the state Senate — and its roots trace back to White County.
According to Paul Bailey, Senate Bill 1900 passed Monday night by a 27–3 vote, increasing penalties for those who assault first responders while they are doing their jobs.
The push behind that legislation began with Jade Callister, a local volunteer firefighter with Central View Fire Department and a full-time firefighter and Advanced EMT with Crossville Fire & Rescue.
Callister brought the issue forward after she was assaulted while responding to a call in 2025 — an incident that highlighted what many in emergency services say is an ongoing risk.
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