Tennessee House Bill HB2898

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Refer: 2/5/24
• Refer: 3/26/24
• Refer: 4/2/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 18; Section 38-6-103; Title 39 and Title 40, relative to domestic violence.

Impact

The bill specifies that an individual convicted of domestic assault must register in the state’s registry if the victim consents to this requirement. The process also involves a registration fee of $150, which helps fund the administration of the registry. The bill’s provisions seek to enhance public safety by making information available about offenders, thus allowing victims and the general public to be informed. However, the details such as the offender's address and other sensitive information will remain confidential to protect their privacy.

Summary

House Bill 2898 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated to create a registry of individuals convicted of domestic assault. This registry is intended to provide public access to information regarding domestic violence offenders, which includes details such as names, conviction dates, and photographs. The bill mandates that the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation maintain this registry, utilizing information from court clerks, the Department of Correction, and local law enforcement agencies, ensuring that this information is available for public inquiry on the internet.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding HB 2898 is the requirement for victim consent for registration. Critics argue this could put victims in a difficult position, potentially deterring them from coming forward to testify or negotiate their cases if they fear retribution from the offender. Additionally, there may be concerns about the efficacy and ethics of maintaining such a registry, particularly regarding how it could affect offenders' reintegration into society after completing their sentences. Discussion will likely continue as stakeholders weigh the benefits of transparency and public safety against privacy and potential vulnerabilities for victims.

Implementation

If enacted, the provisions of HB 2898 would take effect on January 1, 2025, applying only to offenses committed on or after that date. This allows time for relevant authorities to prepare necessary frameworks for effectively implementing the registry and ensuring accurate data collection from judicial proceedings.