Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

Tennessee Senate Bill SB0303

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 16; Title 17; Title 25; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39 and Title 40, relative to the Gabby Act.

Impact

The Gabby Act significantly impacts state laws by mandating a more organized and systematic approach to dealing with domestic violence and child abuse cases. The establishment of the task force allows for better coordination and assistance for law enforcement agencies, particularly in urgent situations where timely intervention can save lives. Additionally, the act introduces the Purple Alert system, designed for quickly disseminating information about missing or endangered domestic abuse victims. This alerts the public and increases the chances of locating victims rapidly, thus showcasing a comprehensive strategy to tackle domestic violence head-on.

Summary

Senate Bill 0303, known as the 'Gabby Act,' is aimed at strengthening the state’s response to domestic violence and child abuse. The act establishes a dedicated domestic violence and child abuse task force within the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), which is responsible for assisting local law enforcement agencies in handling cases of domestic abuse and child endangerment. The act aims to provide much-needed support in investigations, ensuring law enforcement has the necessary resources to address these serious offenses effectively. This legislative change is seen as a proactive measure to enhance the protection of vulnerable populations in Tennessee.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the Gabby Act appears to be largely supportive, with many recognizing the necessity of addressing domestic abuse and child endangerment more effectively. Advocates argue that the creation of a task force and rapid alert system will help victims receive timely assistance and resources. However, there might also be concerns regarding the allocation of resources and how effective the task force will be in practice, which leaves room for some skepticism among various stakeholders in the community.

Contention

While the bill enjoys broad support given its focus on protecting vulnerable persons, there are discussions regarding potential implementation challenges. Some critics question how effectively the task force will operate and whether adequate funding and staffing will be made available to ensure its success. Additionally, the enforcement of the new alert system is crucial, as any lapses could undermine the very purpose of the act. These considerations reflect the ongoing dialogue about best practices in addressing domestic violence and the commitment necessary from the state to make the act a real success.

Companion Bills

TN HB0470

Crossfiled AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 16; Title 17; Title 25; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39 and Title 40, relative to the Gabby Act.

Previously Filed As

TN HB0470

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 16; Title 17; Title 25; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39 and Title 40, relative to the Gabby Act.

TN HB0792

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 29; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40 and Title 67, relative to criminal justice.

TN SB0906

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 29; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40 and Title 67, relative to criminal justice.

TN SB2554

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 29; Title 38; Title 39 and Title 40, relative to criminal justice.

TN HB2601

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 29; Title 38; Title 39 and Title 40, relative to criminal justice.

TN SB1055

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 7; Title 16; Title 38; Title 40; Title 55 and Title 57, relative to expunction.

TN HB1257

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 7; Title 16; Title 38; Title 40; Title 55 and Title 57, relative to expunction.

TN HB0430

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8; Title 10; Title 13; Title 16; Title 29; Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 47; Title 49; Title 50; Title 55; Title 58; Title 65; Title 68 and Title 70, relative to firearms.

TN SB0500

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8; Title 10; Title 13; Title 16; Title 29; Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 47; Title 49; Title 50; Title 55; Title 58; Title 65; Title 68 and Title 70, relative to firearms.

TN HB1580

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8; Title 10; Title 13; Title 16; Title 29; Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 47; Title 49; Title 50; Title 55; Title 58; Title 65; Title 68 and Title 70, relative to firearms.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.