Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

Tennessee Senate Bill SB1056

Introduced
1/31/23  
Engrossed
4/10/23  
Enrolled
4/20/23  
Passed
5/5/23  

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 40, relative to criminal offenses.

Impact

The impact of SB1056 on Tennessee state laws is significant, as it establishes a formalized process for reporting serious offenses that occur within correctional facilities. By requiring timely notifications to district attorney generals, the bill intends to strengthen the legal framework surrounding prison management and ensure that serious crimes do not go unreported. This focuses on improving the safety and integrity of the state's penal institutions and reinforces a structure for legal accountability among prison staff.

Summary

Senate Bill 1056, enacted to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, introduces new mandates for warden or chief administrative officers within penal institutions. The bill requires these officials to report specific criminal offenses, including aggravated assault, murder, and sexual offenses, within five business days of becoming aware of such incidents. This legislation aims to enhance accountability and tracking of serious crimes occurring within state prisons, thereby promoting transparency and oversight in penal environments.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1056 appears largely supportive, particularly among advocates for prison reform and accountability. By addressing the need for reporting such serious offenses, proponents of the bill believe it could lead to better management of criminal acts within prisons and enhance safety for both inmates and staff. However, some opposition may arise from concerns regarding the practicality of enforcing these reporting requirements and the potential implications on inmate privacy rights.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the operational challenges that penal institutions may face in adhering to the new reporting timelines. Critics may argue that the specifics of how offenses are reported could create additional burdens for prison staff who are already managing a complex environment. Furthermore, there is a broader discussion about the balance between criminal justice oversight and the rights of those incarcerated, which could become a focal point for opponents of the bill.

Companion Bills

TN HB1459

Crossfiled AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 40, relative to criminal offenses.

Previously Filed As

TN HB1459

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 40, relative to criminal offenses.

TN SB1193

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 38; Title 39; Title 40 and Title 41, relative to repeat offenders.

TN HB1030

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 38; Title 39; Title 40 and Title 41, relative to repeat offenders.

TN HB0578

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13, relative to criminal offenses.

TN SB1082

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 13, relative to criminal offenses.

TN HB0806

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 12, Part 2, relative to criminal offenses.

TN SB1475

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 12, Part 2, relative to criminal offenses.

TN HB1663

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39; Title 40 and Chapter 1062 of the Public Acts of 2022, relative to sentencing for criminal offenses.

TN SB1834

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39; Title 40 and Chapter 1062 of the Public Acts of 2022, relative to sentencing for criminal offenses.

TN HB0430

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 37; Title 39 and Title 40, relative to acts committed by juveniles.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.