Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

Tennessee House Bill HB2107

Introduced
1/24/24  

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 40, relative to expunction.

Impact

This legislation would notably impact state laws concerning how individuals with prior convictions may seek to clear their records. By expanding the eligibility for expunction, the bill could support reintegration and rehabilitation efforts for elderly individuals who have made significant life changes after serving their sentences. Critics argue that the bill should carefully consider protections against potential abuses by individuals seeking to erase severe offenses. Overall, this change aims to enhance the opportunities available to older adults while balancing public safety concerns.

Summary

House Bill 2107 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 39 and Title 40, focusing on the process of expunction for certain criminal records. The bill introduces a provision allowing individuals aged sixty-five or older, who meet specific criteria related to their past offenses, to file for the expungement of their criminal records starting July 1, 2024. This initiative is designed to provide a pathway for senior citizens who have maintained a clear record post-sentencing, allowing them to move forward without the stigma of a criminal background.

Contention

Some points of contention surrounding HB2107 could focus on the definition of 'eligible petitioners'. The bill excludes those convicted of serious crimes such as violent offenses or DUI. This raises questions on whether the list of excluded offenses is sufficiently comprehensive or too restrictive. Opponents might argue that excluding certain categories of crimes could leave loopholes for individuals who pose risks to the community. However, proponents contend that the bill emphasizes forgiveness and the chance for elderly individuals to reintegrate without their past unfairly haunting them.

Companion Bills

TN SB1933

Crossfiled AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 40, relative to expunction.

Previously Filed As

TN SB1933

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 40, relative to expunction.

TN SB1055

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 7; Title 16; Title 38; Title 40; Title 55 and Title 57, relative to expunction.

TN HB1257

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 7; Title 16; Title 38; Title 40; Title 55 and Title 57, relative to expunction.

TN HB1000

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 2; Title 39 and Title 40, relative to expunction.

TN SB1068

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 2; Title 39 and Title 40, relative to expunction.

TN SB0393

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 40, relative to expunction of certain offenses.

TN HB1149

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 40, relative to expunction of certain offenses.

TN HB2686

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 40-32-101, relative to expunction.

TN SB0613

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 40, Chapter 32 and Title 55, Chapter 10, Part 4, relative to expunction.

TN HB1030

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 38; Title 39; Title 40 and Title 41, relative to repeat offenders.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.