Tennessee House Bill HB7037

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/17/23
• Refer: 8/22/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 16 and Title 38, relative to criminal records.

Impact

The implications of HB7037 on state laws include a significant update to the procedures surrounding criminal records management. By enforcing timely reporting of final dispositions, the bill seeks to ensure that law enforcement agencies and other entities can access timely and accurate information regarding an individual's criminal history. This is crucial for various sectors, including employment, housing, and public safety, where a person's criminal background may influence decisions made by employers, landlords, and licensing authorities.

Summary

House Bill 7037 is designed to enhance the efficiency of the handling of criminal records in Tennessee. The bill mandates that the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) must input each final disposition of criminal proceedings into the National Crime Information Center and any related databases they maintain. This process must occur within thirty days of receipt from a clerk of court, which is intended to streamline the criminal history record check process. By establishing this timeline, the bill aims to improve the accessibility and accuracy of criminal records across the state.

Contention

While the bill seeks to streamline processes, discussions surrounding its implementation could raise concerns regarding privacy and the potential for misuse of information. Critics may argue that faster processing could inadvertently lead to errors being perpetuated in criminal databases, especially if proper checks and oversight are not incorporated. Privacy advocates could stress the importance of ensuring that this information is protected and that individuals have avenues for correcting inaccuracies in their criminal records.