Tennessee House Bill HB0241

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/23
• Refer: 1/21/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8; Title 10, Chapter 7, Part 5; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40 and Title 41, relative to witnesses.

Impact

If enacted, HB0241 would amend various titles in the Tennessee Code Annotated and create a dedicated program under the administration of the attorney general and reporter. The legislative measure emphasizes the importance of safeguarding witnesses, suggesting a shift in state priorities towards enhancing support for those who assist in criminal justice matters. The program would facilitate essential services such as armed protection, relocation to alternate residences, and provision of basic living expenses, effectively broadening the scope of state involvement in witness safety.

Summary

House Bill 241 (HB0241) aims to establish the Tennessee witness protection and relocation grant pilot program. This new program is intended to provide financial support to local agencies and community programs that assist witnesses in criminal proceedings. The bill facilitates the awarding of grants on a competitive basis, which local governments can use to cover expenses related to witness safety, relocation, and other support services necessary for their protection.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding the bill may arise from the competitive nature of the grant distribution, which could lead to disparities in available resources among different local governments. Additionally, the confidentiality clause included in the bill aims to protect the privacy of witnesses, raising questions about transparency and public accountability in the allocation and use of funds. Critics may express concerns about the sufficiency of funding, as the bill explicitly states that it is not an appropriation of funds, and any allocation must be specified through the general appropriations act.