Tennessee House Bill HB0905

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 3/14/23
• Refer: 3/22/23
• Refer: 4/18/23
• Engrossed: 4/20/23
• Enrolled: 4/28/23
• Passed: 5/11/23
• Chaptered: 5/19/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 16, Chapter 2, relative to judicial districts.

Impact

The introduction of additional criminal and circuit courts is expected to alleviate caseload pressures in these districts, potentially improving the efficiency and accessibility of judicial services. By providing a more robust infrastructure, the bill aims to ensure that the judicial system can effectively address the legal needs of the community. The appointment process followed by elections ensures that the positions remain representative of the public's interest, providing voters with a voice in judicial leadership.

Summary

House Bill 0905 seeks to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 16, Chapter 2, concerning judicial districts. The bill introduces the creation of additional judicial positions in the state's thirteenth, nineteenth, and twenty-second judicial districts, establishing new criminal and circuit courts. Each of these courts will have an appointed judge who will serve until a successor is elected in August 2024. This change is set to take effect on September 1, 2023, which reflects a significant adjustment in the structure of Tennessee's judicial system aimed at accommodating growing legal demands.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 0905 seems to be generally supportive, particularly among lawmakers who recognize the necessity for judicial expansion to cope with increasing demands. However, discussions around the bill also highlight concerns regarding the implications of adding new judicial positions and the long-term cost of maintaining these courts. Proponents argue that the benefits of increased judicial capacity will outweigh any potential negatives, while opponents fear it may lead to increased state spending and resource allocation challenges.

Contention

Some points of contention center on the appointment versus election of judges. While the initial judges will be appointed by the governor, critics express concerns about the lack of immediate public accountability that could occur until the subsequent electoral process in 2024. This aspect raises discussions about judicial independence and the public’s ability to influence the judiciary directly. Additionally, there are questions regarding how these changes might affect existing court operations and the distribution of judicial resources across Tennessee.