Tennessee House Bill HB2722

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8 and Title 16, relative to the imposition of fines, fees, and costs.

Impact

The legislative discussions surrounding HB2722 center on its implications for legal transparency and public accessibility. Supporters of the bill argue that by publishing the relevant fines and fees online, the bill will help individuals navigate their financial obligations more easily. This could, in turn, foster compliance with judicial orders and streamline the payment process, which would be beneficial for both the court system and those required to make payments.

Summary

House Bill 2722 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically addressing the imposition of fines, fees, and costs. The principal effect of this bill is the requirement that any fees detailed in a specified section must be made accessible via the court clerk's website. This measure is intended to enhance transparency regarding judicial financial obligations, potentially aiding citizens in understanding their responsibilities and what is owed to the court system.

Contention

While the bill appears straightforward, it raises questions about the administrative burden on court clerks in maintaining accurate and up-to-date information online. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the privacy of individuals who might be inadvertently exposed through such public listings. Critics of the bill, although not prominent in discussions within the existing text, may argue that more robust measures are needed to ensure the protection of sensitive financial information while still promoting accountability.