The Senate passed legislation this week to give approved teachers with specialty training more tools to protect themselves and their students from an active shooter. Senate Bill 1325, sponsored by Senator Paul Bailey (R-Sparta), would allow authorized, full-time school faculty and staff to carry a concealed weapon on campus if certain strict requirements are met. 

A faculty or staff member who qualifies to carry a concealed firearm at school must be approved by three different authorities: the principal, the director of schools, and the chief of the local law enforcement agency. If approved, that faculty or staff member must train alongside local law enforcement to complete at least 40 hours of POST-certified, hands-on training specific to school policing every year. In addition, the trained staff must pass a psychological evaluation, background check, and possess a valid Tennessee handgun carry permit. 

“Due to a shortage of law enforcement officers, we have over 500 schools in Tennessee without a school resource officer, despite available funding,” said Bailey. “This leaves schools vulnerable to deadly attacks, particularly in rural communities where it might take law enforcement 15 to 30 minutes to respond to an active shooter. In the Nashville Covenant School shooting, law enforcement’s rapid response saved lives. In many rural communities, that type of rapid response from law enforcement is simply not possible. This legislation seeks to close that gap by providing a pathway for qualified school staff to carry a firearm to defend their school if necessary.” 

The legislation is permissive, meaning it is up to each school to determine if it wants to allow faculty or staff to carry a weapon. 

Senate Bill 1325 now moves to Governor Lee for his signature before becoming law. 

 

Republicans pass penalties for abortion trafficking

Senate Republicans this week reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the unborn and passed legislation to make abortion trafficking of a minor a Class A misdemeanor.

Senate Bill 1971, sponsored by Senator Paul Rose (R-Covington), seeks to protect parental rights and stop adults who attempt to circumvent the state’s current abortion law by helping to facilitate an abortion for a minor without parental consent.

“In this state we have taken a strong pro-life position on abortion, and this legislation upholds our pro-life, pro-family and pro-parent values,” said Rose. “The bill makes clear that unless a parent approves, another adult cannot take a minor across state lines to receive an abortion.”

Republicans in the General Assembly in 2019 laid the groundwork to ensure life is protected at conception in Tennessee should the U.S. Supreme Court ever reverse its decision to legalize abortion. The General Assembly that year passed the Human Life Protection Act, a conditional trigger law written to go into effect 30 days following the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe vs. Wade.

When the high court overturned its 1973 decision on June 24, 2022, the Human Life Protection Act became law and automatically prohibited all elective abortions in Tennessee. 

 

Legislation provides additional protections for parental rights in medical decisions 

Legislation to prioritize parental rights and further protect Tennessee children from prohibited medical procedures passed the Senate floor this week. 

Senate Bill 2782, sponsored by Senator Janice Bowling (R-Tullahoma) seeks to stop anyone from knowingly taking a minor across state lines without parental consent in order for the minor to receive a medical procedure prohibited in Tennessee. Under the legislation, any adult who recruits, harbors or transports a minor for a restricted medical procedure could be charged with a Class C felony and held civilly liable by the child’s parent or legal guardian under the proposed legislation.

The companion House bill is still moving through committee. 

 

Tennessee Senate passes bill allowing death penalty for child rapists

The Senate advanced legislation to increase the penalty for child rapists in Tennessee. Senate Bill 1834, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-Franklin) and Republican Caucus Chairman Ken Yager (R-Kingston), would expand the death penalty to defendants convicted of child rape.

“There is nothing more vicious or more heinous than the rape of a child,” said Senator Yager. “We are protecting children by allowing the death penalty for this horrible crime.” 

The legislation will strengthen existing state law by increasing the penalty for rape or aggravated rape of a child to death, life in prison without the possibility of parole, or life in prison. Current law classifies the offense as a Class A felony punishable as either a Range III offense, which carries a sentence of 40-60 years in prison or a Range II offense of 25-40 years in prison.

The proposal builds on the General Assembly’s efforts in recent years to improve public safety, reduce recidivism rates, and hold criminals accountable through smart-on-crime justice reforms. The General Assembly in 2022 passed truth in sentencing laws that increased penalties for the most violent of crimes and now requires offenders to serve 85-100 percent of their sentences.  

Senate Bill 1834 passed the Senate floor this week and is still moving through committee in the House of Representatives. 

 

Protecting Children from Social Media Act passes Senate

It is vital to ensure the safety and well-being of Tennessee youth in the digital age. With the exponential growth of social media platforms, the Protecting Children from Social Media Act, sponsored by Leader Jack Johnson (R-Franklin), aims to safeguard children from harmful content found on social media platforms.

“The evidence is clear: social media has harmful effects on children, teens and young adults,” said Johnson. “Oftentimes young children create social media accounts without their parent’s knowledge or consent. The unsupervised use of social media by children is not only inappropriate but can be potentially harmful to those children. This legislation puts parents back in the driver’s seat of their children’s social media usage. It lays out clear steps social media companies must take to verify the ages of users to protect Tennessee children and empower parents.”

The bill would require social media companies to verify the age of any individual creating an account on their platform. If the account holder is a minor, the company must obtain express consent from the parent or guardian for the account creation.

Additionally, the bill would require social media companies to provide parents and guardians with account restriction options for their children. These restrictions include privacy settings, daily time restrictions, and implemented breaks from the platform. 

Senate Bill 2097 passed the Senate and House floor and now moves to the Governor’s desk for his signature.

 

Bill to protect children from accessing pornography online passes Senate

As part of ongoing efforts to protect children from inappropriate materials, the Senate passed legislation this week that aims to shield kids from the harmful effects of pornography.

Senate Bill 1972, sponsored by Senator Becky Massey (R-Knoxville), seeks to restrict children from accessing sexually explicit adult content by requiring online media companies and operators to verify that users attempting to access pornographic websites are at least 18 years old.

Known as the Protect Tennessee Minors Act, the bill would require companies to match a photograph of an active user to a photograph on a valid form of identification issued in the United States. 

The legislation creates a Class C felony for website owners and operators who violate the proposed law. The Tennessee Department of Homeland Security would be responsible for enforcing compliance with the law, which goes into effect January 1, 2025.

A national survey by Common Sense Media cited 73 percent of teen respondents aged 13-17 had watched pornography online. Fifty-four percent reported first watching pornography online before age 13.

The bill passed the Senate floor on Tuesday and now awaits passage in the House. 

 

Tennessee Disability and Aging Act signed into law 

On Thursday, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed the Tennessee Disability and Aging Act, legislation that merges Tennessee’s Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD) and Commission on Aging and Disability (TCAD), creating a new Department of Disability and Aging (DDA). The bill, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-Franklin) and Senator Becky Massey (R-Knoxville), received unanimous, bipartisan legislative support and was backed by numerous stakeholders.

“The consolidation of these government agencies will enhance coordination and advocacy for all Tennesseans to live and age with as much independence and dignity as possible,” said Leader Johnson. “I appreciate Governor Lee for his commitment to ensuring our government operates efficiently while also providing better services to our citizens.” 

Adults 65 years and older are the fastest-growing demographic in Tennessee. With a rapidly increasing aging population, the state must ensure it has the infrastructure in place to serve the needs of older adults.

“The merging of the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities with the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability is an advantageous step in ensuring all Tennesseans can live and age with independence,” said Massey.  “I was pleased to sponsor this legislation so both individuals with disabilities and our seniors can be represented by a Commissioner and Department that totally focuses on issues and services important to them. I am confident the newly formed Department of Disability and Aging will offer exceptional service and provide a voice for these valued citizens.” 

TCAD is Tennessee’s federally designated “state unit on aging,” currently overseeing Older Americans Act programs and providing leadership relative to aging issues throughout state government. Tennessee is one of two states that did not previously house its “state unit on aging” within a cabinet-level agency.

Additionally, there are many similarities in the supports and services DIDD and TCAD provide to enhance the quality of life and independence of the populations they serve. Unifying these two agencies will provide for better coordination on areas of shared priorities.

 

Legislation penalizes false reports of active shooter

The Senate passed legislation this week to increase protections against the intentional false reporting of emergencies in Tennessee, often referred to as “swatting.”

Senate Bill 2222, sponsored by Senator Adam Lowe (R-Calhoun), would make it a Class C felony to knowingly make a false report of an active shooter and hostage situation in order to draw a large law enforcement response to a specific location.

It is already illegal under state law to intentionally make a false report regarding a past, present or future bombing or fire. 

The legislation now moves to the Governor’s desk for his signature.

 

Opposing US participation in WHO Pandemic Accord

In May 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) Pandemic Prevention Preparedness and Response Accord (PPPRA) will become binding upon the United States. Senator Mark Pody (R-Lebanon) passed Senate Joint Resolution 1135 on the Senate floor this week which urges the Biden Administration to withdraw the United States from the PPPRA. There is concern that United States involvement in the accord would relinquish national and state power to an international organization with no accountability to the American people. 

“The United States and Tennessee should not be beholden to a binding agreement set forth by an international organization,” said Senator Pody. 

The resolution strongly opposes the United States cooperation in this accord. The resolution passed the Senate this week and awaits House concurrence. 

 

In brief… 

Election integrity – Senator Brent Taylor (R-Memphis) is sponsoring Senate Bill 2586 which will protect the integrity of elections in Tennessee. The bill will prohibit a convicted felon from handling or collecting voter applications in a voter registration drive. It also ensures that a person involved in the voter registration drive cannot alter an application without the applicant’s consent. This change in law will bring more integrity to election registration and survive court scrutiny. 

 

Punishing illegal distribution of obscene material – Senator Paul Rose (R-Covington) passed legislation on the Senate floor to ensure anyone who produces and distributes illegal obscene material can be held civilly liable for injuries and damages to an injured party. Individuals and entities who produce, sell, send, or distribute obscene material are already in violation of state and federal law. Senate Bill 2041 will further discourage the production and distribution of pornography and obscenity in Tennessee. The bill now sits on the Governor’s desk and awaits his signature. 

 

Month of prayer and fasting – The Senate chamber passed House Joint Resolution 803, sponsored by Senator Mark Pody (R-Lebanon), which designates July as a time of prayer and fasting in Tennessee. Those who are physically able and spiritually inclined to do so are encouraged to participate. The 30 days of prayer and fasting coincides with the start of the state’s 2024-25 fiscal year. HJR 803 now moves to the Governor’s desk and awaits his signature.

 

Threats of violence – The Senate floor passed legislation this week strengthening the punishment for threatening to commit mass violence on school property or at a school-related activity in Tennessee.

Senate Bill 2263, sponsored by Senator Jon Lundberg (R-Bristol) would increase the crime from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony. The legislation includes an exception for individuals with an intellectual disability. The bill now awaits the Governor’s signature. If approved, the new law would take effect July 1.

 

Mitigating threats of violence on school property – Senator John Stevens (R-Huntington) is sponsoring Senate Bill 1501 which will give law enforcement another tool to stop students from threatening violence on school property. The proposed language will clarify the definition of school property and add “student” to existing “communicating a threat” language which currently only applies to school employees. The bill passed the Senate floor on Tuesday and now sits on the Governor’s desk and awaits his signature.

 

Increasing protections from bullying and cyberbullying – Legislation passed on the Senate floor this week to further protect students in Tennessee from bullying and cyberbullying. Senate Bill 1887, sponsored by Senator Adam Lowe (R-Calhoun), would classify the crimes as forms of harassment and require an officer who has knowledge of bullying or cyberbullying to make a report of the incident and notify the parent or guardian when the victim is a minor. The bill now sits on the Governor’s desk and awaits his signature. 

 

Juvenile offenders – The Senate this week passed legislation that would require a child admitted to a juvenile detention facility to be allowed at least one phone call per day before being adjudicated. Senate Bill 2507, sponsored by Johnson, would also require an alleged juvenile offender to receive one half hour in-person visit per day with a parent or guardian. By requiring quick parental access to juvenile offenders, the bill will help affected families and create consistency in juvenile detention center rules. 

 

Protecting Tennessee businesses – Senate Bill 2898, sponsored by Senator Paul Bailey (R-Sparta) would protect the investments of Tennessee businesses operating at the permission of a local government from arbitrarily losing their license to operate. Members of the entertainment transportation industry must comply with expensive, long-term regulations which cost the companies millions of dollars such as enclosing the vehicles, insurance requirements, etc. Senate Bill 2898 would protect these investments and ensure a government that has enacted and enforced these expensive regulations cannot then take away the license from companies that remain in compliance. 

 

Alcohol sales at salons – Legislation sponsored by Senator Jack Johnson (R-Franklin) will allow barbershops and salons to sell alcoholic beverages to their customers. Current law allows the distribution of alcohol in these retail businesses but not the sale of it. Senate Bill 2506 passed the Senate on Monday and now moves to the House. 

 

Public transparency on status of criminal cases – Senator Brent Taylor (R-Memphis) is sponsoring Senate Bill 2556 which will require the District Attorneys Conference to report annually the charges and convictions that occurred within the year. The bill aims to increase transparency with regard to crime across the state. The report will include the charges, sentences imposed, plea deals and much more information on the status of cases. The reports will be submitted to the governor, the Speaker of the Senate, the Speaker of the House, and the appropriate committee chairmen. The bill passed the Senate floor this week and awaits the Governor’s signature. 

 

Parentage fraud restitution – Senator Jon Lundberg is sponsoring Senate Bill 2551 which will create a pathway for restitution for victims of parentage fraud. In the event that a person is convicted of falsely leading a person into believing they are the biological parent of a child, then the judge or jury must ascertain the value of any child support paid by the victim in reliance upon the parentage fraud. The court will also order the defendant to pay the victim restitution of that value of child support. The bill passed the Senate floor this week and awaits the Governor’s signature. 

 

Failure to appear in court – Senator Todd Gardenhire is sponsoring legislation that will put individuals who fail to appear in court for a bench warrant on a federal fugitive database. Senate Bill 2304 would require individuals charged with a felony or a Class A or B misdemeanor that is violent or sexual in nature to be put on the database within 10 business days after failing to appear in court. The bill passed the Senate floor this week and awaits passage in the House of Representatives. 

 

Bills previously covered that passed the Senate floor: 

• Senate Bill 1692 – sponsored by Johnson, generally prohibits booting vehicles in Tennessee, with exceptions for individuals licensed through a local government. (Covered Week 8).
• Senate Bill 1720 – sponsored by Hensley, requires any advertisement that uses a healthcare practitioner’s name to prominently state the profession or license held by the practitioner. (Covered Week 10). 
• Senate Bill 1866 – sponsored by Hensley, specifies that when an employer considers hiring an immigrant who might be in the process of getting their documentation to work in the country legally, the employer must consider the immigrant’s legal status at the time he or she is seeking employment. (Covered Week 11).
• Senate Bill 1915 – sponsored by Niceley, would enable individuals with specific criminal offenses on their record to secure employment opportunities. (Covered Week 11). 
• Senate Bill 1984 – sponsored by Niceley, prohibits the use of eminent domain power to seize land for recreational use. (Covered Week 9). 
• Senate Bill 2172 – sponsored by Hensley,  will set up a uniform system for the collection of delinquent property tax by allowing partial payments. (Covered Week 11). 
• Senate Bill 2221 – sponsored by Powers, creates a Class E Felony offense for a person who causes bodily injury to or offensive contact with someone who is part of a judicial proceeding. (Covered Week 11). 
• Senate Bill 2363 – sponsored by Watson, would require hospitals and physicians to accept electronic insurance cards as valid proof of insurance. (Covered Week 11). 
• Senate Bill 2508 – sponsored by Johnson, will create the live music and performance venue fund which will be used to support live music and performance venues, performers and promoters across the state. (Covered Week 10). 
• Senate Bill 2565 – sponsored by Taylor, will ensure that a defendant’s ability to pay is not used as a determining factor when setting bail. (Covered Week 11). 
• Senate Bill 2610 – sponsored by Rose, will prevent taxpayer funded forums from knowingly allowing spaces for terrorist organizations to meet.
• Senate Bill 2630 – sponsored by Pody, extending the period of time that an offender may request for their names to be taken off of the sexual offender registry from 10 to 15 years. (Covered Week 12).
• Senate Bill 2636 – sponsored by Rose, would create a 12-member advisory task force to review impaired driving and boating statewide, and offer solutions to reduce those crimes from occurring. (Covered Week 10). 
• Senate Bill 2654 – sponsored by White, would create a Class B misdemeanor for any person who knowingly tampers with or removes their monitoring device that has been court-mandated to wear the device. (Covered Week 12). 
• Senate Bill 2662 – sponsored by White, would increase the charge for anyone who acts negligently or engages in conduct that places an eight-year-old child or younger in danger from a Class D felony to a Class B felony. (Covered Week 11). 
• Senate Bill 2677 – sponsored by White, would create more support for veterans by requiring funding for veteran treatment court programs. (Covered Week 12). 
• Senate Bill 2689 – sponsored by White, would require the AOC to define and develop new software systems to help with consistency across the state as well as have updated software for a more streamlined filing process. (Covered Week 8). 
• Senate Bill 2929 – sponsored by Powers,  prioritizes the autopsies of children involved in active investigations by DCS. (Covered Week 11). 
• Senate Joint Resolution 904 – sponsored by Stevens, passed the Senate on second and third reading this week, and protects Tennesseans’ right to bear arms. (Covered Week 12). 
• House Joint Resolution 131 – sponsored by Stevens, establishes that within the borders of Tennessee, only Tennessee’s gun laws can apply in court. (Covered Week 12). 

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(NASHVILLE) This week, Senate Republicans advanced measures to protect constitutional rights, improve public safety and educate Tennessee children on the development of unborn children. Almost all legislative business has shifted from committees to the Senate floor. The full Senate will meet four times next week to deliberate and pass bills advanced from committees. All but two committees have completed their business for the year. The two remaining committees – Finance, Ways and Means and Energy, Agriculture and Natural Resources – are set to meet next week.

 

Senate Republicans advance constitutional amendments protecting right to bear arms in Tennessee

Senate Republicans are proceeding with two proposals from Senator John Stevens (R-Huntington) to amend the Tennessee Constitution to strengthen Tennesseans’ Second Amendment rights.

Senate Joint Resolution 904 advanced to protect citizens’ right to bear arms in the Tennessee Constitution and limit the legislature’s ability to pass restrictive gun laws. The measure proposes to replace the current constitutional provision that authorizes the legislature to “regulate the wearing of arms with a view to prevent crime” and instead state that “citizens have a right to keep, bear and wear arms.”

“The proposed language makes a key distinction that will reinforce Tennesseans’ Second Amendment rights,” said Stevens. “It ensures that the state of Tennessee recognizes that the right to bear arms means citizens have the right to own and carry firearms for their own defense.”

Senate Joint Resolution 904 was read for the first time on the Senate floor this week after passing the Judiciary Committee last month.

This week, Republicans also advanced House Joint Resolution 131 to establish that within the borders of Tennessee, only Tennessee’s gun laws can apply in court.  This would ensure other states cannot enforce their gun laws in Tennessee.

“This policy is important to protect Tennesseans and Tennessee companies from being sued under another state’s gun laws,” said Stevens. “It would make clear that if a Tennessee gun manufacturer had a weapon used in the commission of a crime in another state, then it would be the policy of the state of Tennessee that only Tennessee’s gun laws can apply to Tennessee citizens and companies.”

In 2023, the General Assembly passed a new law providing civil liability protection to firearm and ammunition manufacturers preventing them from being held liable for illegal acts carried out by criminals using their products.

HJR 131 passed the Senate Judiciary Committee this week and passed the House of Representatives last year. It now advances to the Senate floor for its first passage by the General Assembly.

In Tennessee, a proposed constitutional amendment must first be read aloud to the legislature three times in three separate sessions before being voted on. Then, it must pass the General Assembly twice. The first time it must pass with a simple majority voting in favor. The second time it must pass the next General Assembly by a two-thirds majority.  Finally, the amendment is placed on the ballot. To be successful the proposed amendment must receive more yes votes than no votes, and the number of yes votes must be a majority of the total votes in the gubernatorial election.

 

Senate passes firearm safety education in public schools

The Senate this week passed Republican legislation to expand firearm safety education in Tennessee public schools.

Senate Bill 2923, sponsored by Senator Paul Bailey (R-Sparta), would provide students with age and grade-appropriate instruction on firearm safety as part of the existing safety training currently offered in public schools. The curriculum would include safe storage information, how to identify a firearm, the safety risks associated with them and to notify an adult if one is found.

The Department of Education and Department of Safety, in consultation with the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission, would determine the earliest appropriate grade for students to begin receiving education related to firearm safety. The instruction would continue through the 12th grade.

The legislation would prohibit the use of live firearms and ammunition as part of the curriculum. Instruction would also be required to remain neutral on political and gun-related issues.

 

Senate passes legislation to include fetal development in family life curriculum

The Senate passed legislation this week that aims to inform students in family life courses about the biological process of human fetal development from conception to birth. The Baby Olivia Act, sponsored by Senator Janice Bowling (R-Tullahoma), would add that a family life curriculum must include a 3-minute video of a high-definition ultrasound or computer-generated animation depicting the growth of vital organs such as the brain and heart in early fetal development.

The legislation refers to a video called “Meet Baby Olivia” as qualifying material that meets the curriculum standards set in the legislation.

“The family life curriculum would be incomplete if it did not show the very beginning of human life at conception,” said Bowling.  “The Baby Olivia video is a scientific and medically accurate depiction of human development starting at the very beginning of life when the sperm meets the egg. This video is one of the options teachers have the discretion to show their students about human fetal development.”

Under Tennessee law, family life courses require parental consent for students to participate.

The legislation passed on the Senate floor Thursday and now awaits the governor’s signature.

 

Judiciary Committee passes legislation to prevent terrorist organizations from meeting in taxpayer funded spaces

Senator Paul Rose (R-Covington) is sponsoring legislation in an attempt to prevent harm caused by terrorist organizations across the state. Senate Bill 2610 will prevent taxpayer funded forums from knowingly allowing spaces for terrorist organizations to meet.

“Terrorist organizations have grown around the world, and more troublingly, in the United States,” said Sen. Rose. “Recently these organizations have begun to spread their messages through different means. This bill will prohibit these malicious organizations from meeting on public property or using other taxpayer funded means to spread their hateful ideologies.”

The legislation creates a Class E felony offense, punishable by a fine of up to $3,000, for an entity receiving public funds to knowingly provide meeting spaces or other forums, including electronic and print platforms used to solicit support for terrorist organizations.

Under Tennessee law, terrorist organizations include any entity designated by the United States Department of State as a foreign terrorist organization or by the United States Department of the Treasury as a specially designated national.

The bill advances to the Senate floor for final consideration.

 

Additional protections against divisive concepts advances

A bill that aims to strengthen protections for free expression at public universities in Tennessee passed the Senate floor this week.

Senate Bill 2501, sponsored by Senator Joey Hensley (R-Hohenwald) would require public colleges and universities to investigate alleged violations of the state’s divisive concepts law and report the findings promptly.

The results of each investigation must be reported to the Comptroller’s office within 10 days of being completed, according to the legislation. Status updates for ongoing investigations must be submitted every 30 days. State lawmakers must also be notified if an institution receives more than 10 reports during a single academic year.

The General Assembly approved the Tennessee Higher Education Freedom of Expression and Transparency Act last year, which allows any student or employee of a public university to file a report of an alleged violation of the state’s divisive concepts law.

Divisive concepts are those that exacerbate and inflame divisions on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity, religion, color, national origin and other criteria in ways that are contrary to the unity of the United States of America and the well-being of Tennessee and its citizens.

 

TennCare for Working Individuals with Disabilities Act – Senator Bo Watson (R-Hixson) is sponsoring the TennCare for Working Individuals with Disabilities Act to establish a buy-in program so that individuals with disabilities can continue gainfully working without losing their health insurance coverage through TennCare. Current TennCare policy strictly limits eligibility for supports and services based on income. These restrictions limit the types of work individuals with disabilities can do without losing health coverage. Senate Bill 2791 will allow enrollees to pay a monthly premium of 5% of their income to receive the care and benefits needed, allowing the individual to still work gainfully.

“We want to encourage individuals with disabilities to fully engage in their community,” said Sen. Watson. “This legislation can change the lives of these individuals without fear of losing access to care.”

The bill advances to the Senate Finance Committee for further consideration.

 

Katie Beckett Waiver – This year, Senator Kerry Roberts (R-Springfield) is sponsoring Senate Bill 2864 which will increase the number of slots available for part B of the Katie Beckett waiver, allowing more families to participate in the program. The Katie Beckett program provides TennCare coverage for in-home care for children with severe and medically complex disabilities.

The Katie Beckett Waiver was started under President Ronald Reagan. It created the opportunity for states to apply for a Medicaid waiver to allow the use of federal and state dollars to cover in-home care for children with medically complex disabilities, instead of only covering hospital care.

The General Assembly approved the Katie Beckett Waiver in 2019 to expand TennCare coverage to in-home care for about 3,000 children with medical disabilities.

The bill advances out of the Senate Health and Welfare Committee to the Senate Finance Committee.

 

Judicial redistricting – Senator Jon Lundberg (R-Bristol) advanced Senate Bill 305 out of the Senate Judiciary Committee this week. Because of the growth of Tennessee, there is a need to disperse judicial resources and redistrict according to population size. The proposed changes, which will take effect September 1, 2030, are as follows:

• 14th Judicial District – the current 15th Judicial District would be renamed the 14th Judicial District and would lose Wilson County. It would be comprised of Trousdale, Macon, Smith, Jackson and gains Clay County.
• 15th Judicial District – becomes a single county judicial district, comprised of Wilson County.
• 16th Judicial District – becomes a single county judicial district of Rutherford County as Cannon County is removed.
• 31st Judicial District – will gain two counties, Cannon and Coffee, to its existing counties, Warren and Van Buren.

The redistricting proposal eliminates the current 14th judicial district by adding Coffee County to the 31st Judicial District. These changes will allow for accurate reflections of population, resulting in a more efficient and effective judicial system for the state.

The bill advances to the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee.

 

Empowering parents in vaccine decisions – To protect parental authority in decisions regarding their children’s health, the Judiciary Committee passed Senate Bill 2641, sponsored by Senator Joey Hensley (R-Hohenwald) to ensure parents play a role in the decision-making process of childhood vaccinations.

Instead of declaring that parents and legal guardians should adhere strictly to predefined vaccination guidelines, the legislation proposes that vaccination decisions should be guided by recommendations from healthcare providers, in consultation with parents or guardians, aligning with the commissioner of health’s recommendations when deemed appropriate. The bill advanced out of the Senate Judiciary Committee to the Senate Health and Welfare Committee for further consideration.

 

Increasing responsibility for medication aides – On Monday, the Senate passed legislation that would expand the abilities of medication aides to administer medications.  Senate Bill 1993, sponsored by Senator Becky Massey (R-Knoxville), would remove certain restrictions on medication aides, allowing them to administer oral and topical medications without the requirement of a prior nursing assessment completed by a licensed nurse.

They will also be allowed to administer medications delivered by aerosol, nebulizers or material hand-held inhalers. The current restrictions have often led to delays in medication administration and increased burdens on nursing staff, ultimately impacting patient care.

 

Equal coverage for non-opioid medications – In an effort to curb excessive opioid usage in Tennessee, Senator Shane Reeves (R-Murfreesboro) is sponsoring legislation ensuring equal coverage for non-opioid pain medications.  Senate Bill 2011 would make sure that non-opioid drugs approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for pain are not at a disadvantage compared to opioid or narcotic drugs in terms of coverage for pain treatment or management on the Prescription Drug List (PDL). The bill passed the Senate and awaits the Governor’s signature.

 

Textbook accessibility – Legislation ensuring students have reasonable access to necessary classroom materials passed the Senate chamber this week. Senate Bill 2312, sponsored by Senator Mark Pody (R-Lebanon) requires schools that provide electronic textbooks and instructional materials to students to also provide a physical copy if the child’s parent requests it. The bill passed the Senate floor this week and awaits the Governor’s signature.

 

Giving trained teachers the option to conceal carry a firearm to protect their school – To give teachers more tools to protect themselves and their students, Senator Paul Bailey (R-Sparta) is sponsoring Senate Bill 1325 that would allow school faculty and staff with enhanced handgun carry permits to carry concealed firearms within the school.

The school staff who chose to carry a firearm would also be required to complete 40 hours of annual training and a psychological evaluation. The legislation passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee and awaits passage on the Senate floor.

 

Threats of violence – Senate Judiciary Committee Republicans advanced legislation strengthening the punishment for threatening to commit mass violence on school property or at a school-related activity in Tennessee.

Senate Bill 2263, sponsored by Senator Jon Lundberg (R-Bristol) would increase the crime from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony. The legislation includes an exception for individuals with an intellectual disability. The bill advances to the Senate floor for final approval. If approved, the new law would take effect July 1.

 

Reporting funding for broadband services – It is important for Tennessee to ensure recipients of taxpayer funds are held accountable for the services promised.  That is why Senator Paul Bailey (R-Sparta) is sponsoring legislation that would require bi-annual reports from broadband providers that received state or federal grants to provide broadband internet to unserved areas.

The reports must be submitted to the Department of Economic and Community Development and must include the list of locations that remain unserved and the date on which they plan to serve these locations. Senate Bill 2907 passed the Senate floor this week and is moving through committee in the House of Representatives.

 

Protecting victims of cybercrimes from litigation – Cybersecurity is an increasingly large issue hurting businesses and consumers. To help protect businesses from class action lawsuits caused by predatory cybersecurity attacks, Senator Shane Reeves (R-Murfreesboro) is sponsoring legislation that would ensure businesses that are victims of cyberattacks are not held civilly liable. Senate Bill 2018 would not cover cases of willful or gross negligence on the part of the private entity. Senate Bill 2018 passed the Judiciary Committee on Tuesday and now awaits passage on the Senate floor.

 

Protecting Tennessee workers – Legislation passed the Senate this week ensuring that workers are properly compensated for all hours worked. Senate Bill 2017, sponsored by Senator Shane Reeves (R-Murfreesboro), would require causes of action for all compensation owed to employees or independent contractors to be brought within three years of accruing the cause of action. These actions include breach of contract, unjust enrichment, or quantum merit for unpaid wages for hours worked, overtime, minimum wage, salary, bonuses, commissions, or other compensation. The three-year timeline brings Tennessee in line with federal standards. This bill has also passed the House and now awaits the governor’s signature.

 

Inmate sentencing – Senator Jon Lundberg (R-Bristol) is sponsoring Senate Bill 2044 which would ensure that an inmate’s actual sentence could not be reduced with good-time credits. The Tennessee Department of Correction can issue good-time credits for inmates, but the bill clarifies that these credits can only be used toward release eligibility, not towards reduction of the actual sentence. The bill advances to the Senate Finance Committee.

 

Justice for victims of illegal distribution of obscene material – Senator Paul Rose (R-Covington) advanced legislation to ensure anyone who produces and distributes illegal obscene material can be held civilly liable for injuries and damages to victims. Individuals and entities who produce, sell, send, or distribute obscene material are already in violation of state and federal law. Senate Bill 2041 will further discourage the production and distribution of child pornography and obscenity in Tennessee. The bill moves to the Senate floor for final approval.

 

Strengthening sex offender registry – The Tennessee General Assembly is taking active steps to protect communities from sexual offenders. Senate Bill 2630, sponsored by Mark Pody (R-Lebanon), aims to do this by extending the period of time that an offender may request for their names to be taken off of the sexual offender registry from 10 to 15 years. The legislation passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday and now moves to the Senate floor for final consideration.

 

Holding juvenile delinquents accountable – Senator Paul Bailey (R-Sparta) is sponsoring legislation aimed at enhancing community safety and preventing juvenile offenders from accessing firearms. Under current law, juvenile delinquents can purchase firearms upon reaching 18 years old. Senate Bill 2911 would raise the age limit to 25 for juveniles convicted of specific crimes to purchase firearms. If approved, this bill would apply if a juvenile over the age of 14 was convicted of crimes that if committed by an adult would constitute a charge like criminal homicide and aggravated assault. The legislation passed the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday and moves to the Senate floor for final consideration.

 

Monitoring state detention centers – Legislation sponsored by Senator Kerry Roberts (R-Springfield) aims to provide protections for children in post-adjudication juvenile detention centers. Senate Bill 2860 would require inspections for the state’s post-adjudication juvenile detention centers to ensure that these facilities are complying with state laws and regulations. This bill passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee and now awaits final passage on the Senate floor.

 

Veteran treatment court programs – Tennessee values and supports veterans. Senator Dawn White (R-Murfreesboro) is sponsoring legislation that would create more support for veterans by requiring funding for veteran treatment court programs. These programs have helped many veterans through rehabilitation and mental health struggles they often face. Senate Bill 2677 passed the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday and now moves to the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee.

 

Ensuring retired law enforcement can carry firearms at all times – Legislation sponsored by Senator Paul Rose (R-Covington) seeks to enhance public safety by allowing retired officers to carry firearms at all times. Senate Bill 2797 would expand the definition of law enforcement officer to include retired officers to ensure these officers can be armed to protect in times of need. The legislation passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday and now awaits passage on the Senate floor.

 

Increasing penalties for assaulting officers – Legislation sponsored by Senator Dawn White (R-Murfreesboro) would increase the penalties for assaulting a police officer from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony. Senate Bill 2062 would also increase the mandatory minimum sentence from 30 days to 60 days and the fine from $5,000 to $10,000. Senate Bill 2062 passed the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday and now moves to the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee.

 

Preventing monitor device tampering – Legislation sponsored by Senator Dawn White (R-Murfreesboro) aims to prevent monitor device tampering. Senate Bill 2654 would create a Class B misdemeanor for any person who knowingly tampers with or removes their monitoring device that has been court mandated to wear the device. This legislation passed the Senate Judiciary Committee and awaits final approval on the Senate floor.

 

Enhancing charges for unlawful photography – Senator Dawn White (R-Murfreesboro) is sponsoring legislation that would enhance the charges for the harmful act of unlawful photography. Senate Bill 2669 would raise the offense of unlawful photography from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony. This bill passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee and now moves to the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee.

 

Supporting and protecting other states – The Senate Judiciary Committee passed legislation this week to help support other states in need of assistance. Senate Bill 2624, Senator Ed Jackson (R-Jackson), would allow Tennessee state or local law enforcement to provide assistance to other states during an emergency if directed by the executive officer of that law enforcement agency. The legislation now awaits passage in the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee.

 

Ensuring public meetings are open – To keep governing bodies accountable, legislation sponsored by Senator Mark Pody (R-Lebanon) would allow courts to impose fees on a governing body if the court finds that the governing body knowingly and willfully refuses to comply with open meeting laws. Senate Bill 1963 passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday and now moves to the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee.

 

Increasing penalties for drag racing – Senator Brent Taylor (R-Memphis) is sponsoring Senate Bill 2710 which would increase the penalty for drag racing from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony. This change will give law enforcement the option to charge a person with either drag racing or reckless driving, which is also proposed to change to a Class E felony charge under other new legislation. The bill passed the Judiciary Committee and advances to the Senate Finance Committee.

 

Bills Previously Covered that Passed the Senate Floor

• Senate Bill 757 – sponsored by Haile, would require a local law enforcement agency to verify a detainee’s citizenship. (Covered Week 11).
• Senate Bill 1715 – sponsored by Hensley, would ensure that all schools have a school resource office (SRO) on campus. (Covered Week 11).
• Senate Bill 1723 – sponsored by Lowe, requires each elector or alternate to vote for the candidate for which they were elected or appointed to represent. (Covered Week 11).
• Senate Bill 1801 – sponsored by Johnson, allows victims to sue up to 30 years after they turn 18 for any injuries or illnesses that occurred as a result of the sexual abuse. (Covered Week 10).
• Senate Bill 1802 – sponsored by Taylor, would permit a neighboring District Attorney to prosecute certain Shelby County crimes if the Shelby County DA refuses to prosecute. (Covered Week 11).
• Senate Bill 2004 – sponsored by Rose, adds licensed professional counselors, marital and family therapists and clinical pastoral therapists to the list of medical practitioners in code. (Covered Week 10).
• Senate Bill 2097 – sponsored by Johnson, will safeguard children from harmful content found on social media platforms. (Covered Week 9).
• Senate Bill 2315 – sponsored by Pody, creates a process for financing infrastructure to facilitate more residential development in cities and counties that desire to use it. (Covered Week 10).
• Senate Bill 2482 – sponsored by Rose, will ensure parents are informed by physicians about their minor child’s prescription medications and/or suicidal ideation. (Covered Week 10).
• Senate Bill 2627 – sponsored by Massey, will ensure judges are equipped to handle custody proceedings involving child abuse. (Covered Week 10).
• Senate Bill 2636 – sponsored by Rose – will reduce drunk driving in Tennessee by appointing an advisory task force to review impaired driving. (Covered Week 10).
• Senate Bill 2861 – sponsored by Roberts, will prohibit the Department of Corrections from administering hormone replacement therapy or providing sex reassignment surgery for inmates with gender dysphoria. (Covered Week 10).

 

(NASHVILLE) – This week on Capitol Hill lawmakers were hard at work passing meaningful legislation to improve the lives of Tennesseans as the General Assembly begins to wind down. Public safety was a big focus this week. Among the important measures passed were several bills to curb the effects of illegal immigration in Tennessee and protect Tennessee communities from the crisis at the southern border as well as violent criminals.

Additionally, this Holy Week, lawmakers passed legislation to designate November as Christian Heritage Month to recognize the importance of Christianity in the nation’s history.

 

Legislation seeks reports on illegal immigrants who commit crimes in Tennessee

Senator Ferrell Haile (R-Gallatin) is sponsoring two bills that will strengthen the state’s standing to sue the federal government over the costs of illegal immigrants to Tennessee’s taxpayers. Haile’s bills would generate reports that detail the costs incurred by the state from illegal immigrants who commit criminal offenses in Tennessee.

Senate Bill 757 would require a local law enforcement agency to verify a detainee’s citizenship. If found to be not lawfully present in the United States, then the jail must report that illegal immigrant to the Department of Safety and Homeland Security.

Senate Bill 2158 would require the District Attorneys General Conference to collect and compile data on the cost incurred by the state as a direct result of known illegal immigrants charged or convicted of a criminal offense. The report will be submitted to the Governor and both speakers of the General Assembly.

“With record numbers of illegal immigrants pouring into our country as a result of failure from the Biden Administration, every state has become a border state,” said Haile. “These bills will help us learn the cost and impact the immigration crisis is having on our state, so we can take steps to fix the issues and protect Tennessee communities.”

Senate Bill 757 advances to the Senate floor for final approval, and Senate Bill 2158 advances to the Senate Finance Committee.

 

Enforcing sanctuary city ban

On Monday, Senate Republicans passed legislation to ensure that no city in Tennessee is harboring illegal immigrants. Senate Bill 2576, sponsored by Senator Brent Taylor (R-Memphis) will require the Sheriff of every county to fully comply with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Legislation was passed in 2018 that authorized sheriffs to ban sanctuary cities in Tennessee. This bill ensures that the prohibition of sanctuary cities is enforced.

 

Clarifying immigration status requirements for employment

Another bill passed this week helps address the employment of illegal immigrants. Senator Joey Hensley (R-Hohenwald) is sponsoring legislation that clarifies acceptable hiring practices for legal and illegal immigrants. Senate Bill 1866 would specify that when an employer considers hiring an immigrant who might be in the process of getting their documentation to work in the country legally, the employer must consider the immigrant’s legal status at the time he or she is seeking employment. This legislation passed the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday and now awaits passage on the Senate floor.

 

Legislation aims to increase punishment for illegal immigrants who commit violent crimes

Legislation that would sentence illegal immigrants convicted of violent crimes in Tennessee to life in prison without parole advanced out of the Senate Judiciary Committee this week.

Senate Bill 2770, sponsored by Senator Janice Bowling (R-Tullahoma) would allow a judge to sentence an illegal immigrant to life without parole if convicted of a violent crime or if a deadly weapon was involved in the offense. The bill also authorizes the same enhancement for adults convicted of a violent crime on school property.

“Tennessee borders eight states and has seven interstates running through it,” said Bowling. “These factors make Tennessee more susceptible to illegal immigrants trafficking humans and drugs in our state. These offenses breed violent crime and pose a significant threat to public safety.”

Under the bill, the arrest of an illegal immigrant and all subsequent convictions must also be reported to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. The data will be used to help understand the impact on Tennessee.

The Department of Homeland Security has reported more than 6 million encounters along the southern border since 2021. An additional 1.7 million individuals entered the country illegally and successfully evaded authorities.

 

Death penalty could be option for convicted child rapists under new bill

The Senate Judiciary Committee advanced legislation to increase the penalty for child rapists in Tennessee. Senate Bill 1834, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-Franklin) and Republican Caucus Chairman Ken Yager (R-Kingston), would expand the death penalty to defendants convicted of child rape.

“We have a compelling interest to protect our most valuable citizens, our children,” said Yager. “Child rape is one of the worst crimes imaginable, and there are times life imprisonment for the rapist does not go far enough.  This legislation gives prosecutors the ability to go after the most severe offenders of child rape with the most severe punishment: death.”

The legislation will strengthen existing state law by increasing the penalty for rape or aggravated rape of a child to death, life in prison without the possibility of parole, or life in prison. Current law classifies the offense as a Class A felony punishable as either a Range III offense, which carries a sentence of 40-60 years in prison or a Range II offense of 25-40 years in prison.

The proposal builds on the General Assembly’s efforts in recent years to improve public safety, reduce recidivism rates, and hold criminals accountable through smart-on-crime justice reforms. The General Assembly in 2022 passed truth in sentencing laws that increased penalties for the most violent of crimes and now requires offenders to serve 85-100 percent of their sentences.

 

Legislation aims to level the playing field for college athletes to maximize NIL value

Legislation passed by the Senate this week keeps Tennessee leading the nation in name, image and likeness (NIL) protections for college athletes. Senate Bill 709, sponsored by Sen. John Stevens (R-Huntingdon) updates the state’s current NIL law to provide more opportunities for student-athletes to capitalize on their talents.

The legislation establishes legal protections for current and prospective college athletes to maximize their Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) value.

“In the last five 5 years, we have made significant progress to ensure college athletes can participate in the free market and earn profit from their own names and faces,” said Stevens.  “For decades, the NCAA banned student-athletes from being compensated for their name, image and likeness, while the NCAA and universities made billions off those athletes. Fortunately today, NCAA athletes can profit from their NIL. This legislation further aligns Tennessee’s NIL laws with free-market principles and promotes fairness and transparency in collegiate athletics in Tennessee.”

The bill protects the ability of current and prospective athletes to assess their NIL value freely by performing “diligence.” This means that in the recruitment process, a prospective athlete can better explore their NIL value at different institutions and make more informed decisions about their financial future.

“This legislation keeps Tennessee institutions competitive,” added Stevens. “It ensures our laws are attractive and fair for young talented athletes looking to bring their skills to Tennessee universities.”

 

Sen. Taylor advances several bills to improve public safety in Memphis

Senator Brent Taylor (R-Memphis) has led major efforts this year to improve public safety, specifically in his home city of Memphis. Memphis’ crime rate has grown exponentially, and Taylor is determined to reduce crime rates by keeping violent criminals off the streets. This week, Sen. Taylor advanced several bills aimed at making Memphis safer

DA Second Opinion Act would allow DAs from neighboring counties to prosecute crimes

Taylor successfully passed legislation through the Judiciary Committee this week that would require law enforcement to report certain major criminal investigations to District Attorneys in neighboring counties. Senate Bill 1802 —known as the DA Second Opinion Act—would permit a neighboring District Attorney to prosecute certain Shelby County crimes if the Shelby County DA refuses to prosecute.

“This legislation will permit law enforcement to make a prosecution request to a neighboring District Attorney who may have a more ‘law and order’ approach to criminal prosecutions,” Taylor stated. “Police officers work hard to build a case against violent criminals. This bill is designed to give law enforcement officials more options. It will provide Memphians the opportunity to receive the justice those in the law-abiding community demand.”

The bill passed the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday and now awaits passage on the Senate floor.

Bill would increase punishment for intentionally blocking roads

Republicans advanced another bill sponsored by Taylor this week aimed at preventing roadways from being illegally blocked in Tennessee.

Senate Bill 2570 would increase the penalty for intentionally obstructing roadways or other areas used for transportation from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class D felony. The legislation would also allow anyone who suffered injury or loss as a result of the crime to seek compensatory damages through legal action.

A Class D felony is punishable by a minimum of two years in prison and a maximum fine of $5,000. If approved, SB 2570 would take effect July 1.

This legislation passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee and now moves to the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee.

Prohibiting ‘Ability to Pay’ to determine bail

Another bill sponsored by Taylor advanced in the Judiciary Committee to keep Shelby County’s new Bail Hearing Room from recklessly releasing criminals without bond based on an “Ability to Pay Calculator” to set bail. Since being implemented in February 2023, the Bail Hearing Room has led to a more than 10 percent increase in the number of criminal defendants released without bond.

Senate Bill 2565 will ensure that a defendant’s ability to pay is not used as a determining factor when setting bail. Similarly, another of Taylor’s bills ensures that the threat to public safety is the number one factor considered when determining bail.

“The purpose of bail is to ensure that the defendant appears in court and to ensure the safety of the public if the defendant is released pre-trial,” said Sen. Taylor. “If a judge sets bail at whatever amount the defendant can pay, that is the same thing as releasing a defendant on their own recognizance because they have the money in their pocket to make bail.”

 

Creating a high-demand workforce grant program

The Senate Commerce and Labor Committee passed legislation that would bolster Tennessee’s high-demand skilled workforce and create more apparent opportunities for workers.

Senate Bill 1937, sponsored by Speaker Pro Tempore Ferrell Haile (R-Gallatin), establishes a high-demand workforce readiness grant program for students pursuing careers in these fields with skills in high demand. The program will provide financial assistance to eligible students enrolled in approved institutions sanctioned by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission.

“By providing students with access to quality education and training opportunities, we are not only investing in their future success but also driving economic growth and innovation across our state,” said Haile. “This bill demonstrates our commitment to fostering a highly skilled workforce that is ready to meet the evolving demands of our economy.”

The High-Demand Workforce Readiness Board is tasked with annually identifying high-demand sectors within the state and reputable institutions offering training programs in these critical fields. The new grant program established under the legislation would complement the efforts of the board.

The bill now moves to the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committees.

 

Legislation designates November as Christian Heritage Month

This Holy Week, Republicans passed legislation to set aside a month to recognize the historical and cultural significance of Christianity in the state and country. Senate Bill 2306, sponsored by Senator Paul Rose (R-Covington) designates November as Christian Heritage Month.

Senator Rose and other Republican senators spoke about the important role of Christianity in making the United States a prosperous nation. Rose cited George Washington’s farewell address in which he said: “Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports.”

“Our Christian heritage is critical to this nation,” said Rose. “Republicans and Democrats cannot solve the problems that plague our state and nation, but there is one who can and that’s the Lord Jesus Christ. If we desire to continue to exist as a nation, we need to go back to the roots of our founding. This bill is important in that pursuit, so that citizens can learn more about Christian Heritage.”

 

Ben Kredich Act aims to prevent impaired driving by those treated with Narcan

The Senate Judiciary Committee passed legislation to clarify that patients who have been treated for a drug overdose with Narcan could still be impaired and charged with driving under the influence, as drugs would still be present in their system.  Senate Bill 2116, sponsored by Senator Becky Duncan Massey (R-Knoxville) instructs first responders who administer an opioid antagonist such as Narcan to an individual experiencing a drug overdose may provide information on the risk of driving within a 24-hour period.

The legislation is named after Ben Kredich who tragically lost his life after being struck by a driver who fell asleep at the wheel after being administered Narcan in a hospital earlier that day. The driver was unaware of possible side effects of Narcan and that the drugs causing the overdose would remain in his system for at least 24 hours.

“The education provided under the Ben Kredich Act will help curb accidental deaths and DUI offenses, hopefully preventing another situation like the one that happened to Ben,” said Massey.

The bill now advances to the Senate Finance Committee.

 

Legislation would expand newborn safe haven program

A proposal to expand the availability of Safe Haven Baby Boxes for newborns in Tennessee advanced this week in the Senate. Senate Bill 1670 sponsored by Senator Becky Massey (R-Knoxville) adds emergency communication centers and certain nursing homes that are staffed 24 hours a day to the list of approved locations where newborn safety devices may be located for the purpose of surrendering a newborn.

Since 2001, Tennessee’s Safe Haven law has allowed mothers in certain cases to surrender their newborn without fear of being prosecuted. The child must be no more than 14 days old, unharmed and left voluntarily. The General Assembly previously approved legislation in 2022 that expands the state’s safe haven law by allowing for the installation of Safe Haven Baby Boxes at police and fire stations in Tennessee.

Senate Bill 1670 passed the Senate floor unanimously on Thursday and now goes to the governor for his signature.

 

In brief…

Violation of bond conditions – Senate Bill 2564 would make it a Class A misdemeanor for an individual who is out on bond to violate the conditions of their release. This change would allow law enforcement to arrest an individual who is suspected of violating the conditions of their release instead of having to wait for the district attorney’s office to file a motion and schedule a court hearing which could take weeks. This legislation, sponsored by Sen. Brent Taylor (R-Memphis), passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee and now awaits final passage on the Senate floor.

 

Pretrial monitoring – Another bill sponsored by Taylor would strengthen Tennessee’s bail laws and improve public safety. Senate Bill 2566 would require defendants charged with a Class A, B, C or D felony to submit to pretrial monitoring if the magistrate issues conditions of release. Courts must also forfeit bail and may issue an arrest warrant if a defendant fails to comply with the conditions. The measure passed the Senate Judiciary Committee this week and now moves to the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee.

 

More tools to fight elder abuse – To help the state fight elder abuse, the Senate passed, Senate Bill 163, sponsored by Senator Page Walley (R-Savannah). The legislation empowers District Attorneys to provide confidentiality for those who report information about abuse. Under the bill, those who come forward can still be interviewed, but their identity will be protected. This will help DAs go after abusers by encouraging citizens with knowledge of abuse to come forward.

 

Delinquent property tax payments – Senator Joey Hensley (R-Hohenwald) is sponsoring Senate Bill 2172 which aims to help citizens behind on paying property tax. The bill will set up a uniform system for the collection of delinquent property tax by allowing partial payments. The partial payments will help citizens cut down on the interest owed. The bill advanced out of the Senate State and Local Government Committee to the Senate floor for final approval.

 

Ensuring schools know students’ criminal histories – To ensure schools are aware of their students’ criminal histories, the Senate passed legislation to authorize schools to remind parents of their obligation to disclose to the school if their child is convicted of certain  delinquent acts. Senate Bill 2365, sponsored by Senator Bo Watson (R-Hixson), also increases the penalty for parents or legal guardians who fail to do so from a Class C misdemeanor to Class B misdemeanor.

 

Accepting electronic insurance cards – Senator Bo Watson (R-Hixson) is sponsoring legislation to help streamline doctor and hospital visits. Senate Bill 2363 would require hospitals and physicians to accept electronic insurance cards as valid proof of insurance. This legislation passed out of the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee on Wednesday and now awaits final passage on the Senate floor.

 

Penalizing violent conduct in judicial proceedings – Senate Bill 2221, sponsored by Senator Bill Powers (R-Clarksville), creates a Class E Felony offense for a person who causes bodily injury to or offensive contact with someone who is part of a judicial proceeding. Offensive contact could include spitting, throwing, or otherwise transferring bodily fluids, bodily pathogens, or human waste onto a victim. The bill would apply to participants in a judicial proceeding including anyone employed as a judge, district attorney general, attorney for a party in a criminal or civil case, court employee, bailiff, courtroom security personnel, and other person who works in the building where a judicial proceeding takes place.

 

Increasing penalties for child endangerment – Tennessee lawmakers are actively working to prevent children, who are unable to protect themselves, from being knowingly endangered by an adult. Legislation sponsored by Senator Dawn White (R-Murfreesboro) would create a higher offense for parents or guardians who knowingly endanger their child. Senate Bill 2662 would increase the charge for anyone who acts negligently or engages in conduct that places an eight year old child or younger in danger from a Class D felony to a Class B felony. This legislation passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday and now awaits passage on the Senate floor.

 

Increasing protections from bullying and cyberbullying – The Senate Judiciary Committee advanced Senate Bill 1887, sponsored by Senator Adam Lowe (R-Calhoun), to further protect students in Tennessee from bullying and cyberbullying. The bill would classify the crimes as forms of harassment and require an officer who has knowledge of bullying or cyberbullying to make a report of the incident and notify the parent or guardian when the victim is a minor. The bill advances to the Senate floor for final approval.

 

Prioritizing autopsies for children – Senator Bill Powers (R-Clarksville) is sponsoring legislation that will instruct the Department of Children’s Services (DCS) and county and chief medical examiners to create policies prioritizing the autopsies of children involved in active investigations by DCS. The bill pertains to issues uncovered by the Second Look Commission when trying to look at the most heinous deaths against children. The Commission looks at the autopsies to help investigate and close cases, and some of the autopsies have taken up to 3.5 years to be completed. Senate Bill 2929 will ensure that the cases are prioritized so they can be closed and resolved quicker.

 

Uniform Faithful Presidential Electors Act – Legislation to ensure the integrity of presidential electors advanced out of the Senate State and Local Government Committee this week. The Uniform Faithful Presidential Electors Act, sponsored by Senator Adam Lowe (R-Calhoun), would require each elector or alternate to vote for the candidate for which they were elected or appointed to represent. If they refuse to do so, they will be replaced. The bill advances to the Senate floor for final approval.

 

Helping rural utility operations — Senator Page Walley (R-Savannah) is sponsoring Senate Bill 129 which will help rural counties with utility depreciation by allowing a one-year delay in depreciation payments. Currently, one year after a utility system is installed and operational, the municipality is responsible for paying depreciation, which is costly and burdensome on rural counties. This also makes it even harder to replace the systems once its life has ended. The bill advances to the Senate floor for final approval.

Ensuring SROs at schools – Senate Bill 1715, sponsored by Senator Joey Hensley (R-Hohenwald) would ensure that all schools have a school resource officer (SRO) on campus. Currently, some local boards of education have not entered into a memorandum of understanding with the local law enforcement agency, meaning that some schools do not have a SRO. This bill will allow the law enforcement agency to assign a law enforcement officer to serve as the SRO to a school.

Accountability for election administrators – Legislation sponsored by Senator Joey Hensley (R-Hohenwald) would help create accountability for election administrators by enforcing certain rules and regulations to follow.  Senate Bill 1706 requires an administrator of elections to file information of certain educational events related to elections that occur outside of the state to the Secretary of State. The bill specifies that the form must be filed within 15 days of the event. The legislation passed out of the Senate on Thursday and now awaits passage in the House.

 

More opportunities for physician assistants – Tennessee has many compacts with other states that allow certain workers to cross state lines with their licenses and practice in those states and in our state. Legislation sponsored by Senator Ed Jackson (R-Jackson), Senate Bill 1727, would add physician assistants to these already existing compacts by enacting the Physician Assistant (PA) Licensure Compact. This bill passed out of the Senate on Thursday and now awaits passage in the House.

 

Providing more employment opportunities – Senator Frank Niceley (R-Strawberry Plains) is sponsoring legislation aimed at increasing workforce participation. Senate Bill 1915 would enable individuals with specific criminal offenses on their record to secure employment opportunities. If passed, the bill would allow licensing authorities to evaluate candidates’ criminal histories on a case-by-case basis when determining approval or denial of certain occupational licenses. This legislation passed out of the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee and now awaits final passage on the Senate floor.

 

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