Tennessee House Bill HB1924

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/24
• Refer: 1/25/24
• Refer: 2/6/24
• Refer: 2/13/24
• Refer: 4/17/24
• Chaptered: 5/31/24
• Passed: 5/31/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, relative to indecent exposure.

Impact

If enacted, HB1924 would significantly impact Tennessee's laws concerning indecent exposure by imposing stricter penalties. The reclassification of violations to felony status can lead to harsher consequences for offenders, which may serve as a deterrent for such acts. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the need for mandatory sentencing, which removes judicial discretion concerning minimum incarceration periods. This could lead to increased prison populations if enforced uniformly.

Summary

HB1924 is a legislative act aimed at amending the Tennessee Code Annotated pertaining to indecent exposure. The bill specifically modifies the penalties associated with certain violations of indecent exposure laws. It reclassifies violations under subsection (c) as Class E felonies, thereby increasing the severity of the punishment. Furthermore, the bill mandates that individuals found guilty of such violations face a minimum sentence of fourteen consecutive days of incarceration in addition to any other penalties they may be serving at the time of the offense.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1924 appears divided, with some legislative members supporting the bill as a necessary step toward addressing public concerns over indecent exposure. Proponents argue that stricter penalties are warranted to uphold community standards and protect public decency. Conversely, opponents are likely to express concerns about the implications of escalated punitive measures, including the potential for disproportionately harsh repercussions for relatively minor offenses.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the bill's strictness regarding sentencing and the implications of classifying indecent exposure as a felony. Critics may argue that this could lead to excessive penalization for individuals who may not pose a significant harm to society. The automatic imposition of a minimum sentence regardless of circumstances also raises debates on judicial discretion and fairness in legal proceedings.