Tennessee House Bill HB0385

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/23
• Refer: 2/1/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Refer: 2/14/23
• Refer: 4/18/23
• Chaptered: 5/24/23
• Passed: 5/24/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 40 and Title 41, relative to sentence reduction credits.

Impact

The introduction of this legislation is seen as a significant shift within Tennessee's correctional approach, as it grants convicted felons the opportunity to reduce their sentences based on their comportment during pre-sentence incarceration. By calculating credits at a rate of eight days for each month served before sentencing, the bill is expected to impact how time served is evaluated, potentially leading to earlier releases for some inmates.

Summary

House Bill 385 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated by making adjustments to the regulation of sentence reduction credits for convicted felons. The bill allows for sentence reduction credits to be awarded for good institutional behavior to be calculated not only during the time served post-sentencing but also during the time incarcerated prior to imposition of sentence. This change is intended to provide a fairer approach to sentence reduction by acknowledging the behavior of inmates prior to their legal sentencing.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 385 is expected to be favorable among advocates for criminal justice reform, who argue that it promotes rehabilitation and recognizes positive behavior. However, concerns may arise from law enforcement and victims' advocacy groups, who might view the bill as too lenient towards individuals convicted of felonies. The discussion reflects broader societal debates on the balance between punishment and rehabilitation in the criminal justice system.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding this bill may include debates over the sufficiency of documentation required for awarding sentence reduction credits and the implications of providing such credits to convicted felons. Some legislators may argue that relaxing requirements for credit eligibility could undermine public safety and victims' rights, raising questions on the appropriateness of rewarding reformed behavior when weighing the severity of past crimes.