Tennessee House Bill HB2216

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/24
• Refer: 1/31/24
• Refer: 2/27/24
• Refer: 3/6/24
• Chaptered: 4/8/24
• Passed: 4/8/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 28; Title 39 and Title 40, relative to sexual assault.

Impact

The bill is expected to have significant implications on how sexual assault cases are handled in Tennessee. By extending the timeframe for filing a civil lawsuit, the legislation aims to reflect the complexities and potential delays in reporting such traumatic incidents. This adjustment is an effort to ensure that victims have a fair opportunity to pursue legal recourse, aligning the civil process more closely with the realities faced by many survivors of sexual violence.

Summary

House Bill 2216, also referred to as 'Danielle's Law', aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated regarding the statute of limitations for civil actions based on sexual assault. The bill sets forth a framework for victims of sexual assault, allowing them to file a civil lawsuit within three years if law enforcement was not notified at the time of the attack, or within five years if they reported the assault. This change seeks to empower survivors of sexual assault by providing them with a more accommodating timeframe to seek justice through civil courts.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2216 appears to be generally positive among advocates for victims' rights, as it is seen as an important step toward addressing the challenges faced by survivors of sexual assault. Supporters argue that the extended timeframes will allow more victims to come forward and seek justice. However, there may be apprehensions from some lawmakers regarding the potential implications this bill could have on legal proceedings and the rights of the accused, sparking some contention in the legislative discussions.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 2216 may arise from discussions on the balance between the rights of victims and the rights of the accused. Critics of the bill could argue that extending the statute of limitations might complicate legal processes or could be abused in some cases. Additionally, the operational challenges that could arise from more civil actions based on the extended timeframes may lead to concerns about the implications for the judicial system. The discussions around the bill highlight a broader societal concern about how best to support victims while maintaining fair legal standards.