Tennessee Senate Bill SB2695

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 40, Chapter 11, relative to failure to appear.

Impact

If enacted, SB2695 would create significant changes in how the judicial system handles cases involving defendants who do not appear for court related to serious offenses. The legislation establishes stricter timelines and protocol for notifying the appropriate databases, which could lead to more efficient tracking and apprehension of individuals charged with these offenses. It highlights an increased focus on serious crimes and the importance of ensuring that those accused do not evade justice.

Summary

Senate Bill 2695 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically targeting statutes related to failure to appear in court cases. The bill proposes that if a court issues a bench warrant due to a defendant's failure to appear for a felony offense classified as violent or sexual, the defendant must be entered into a state or federal fugitive database within ten days. This change is designed to expedite the process of tracking individuals who fail to appear for serious charges, enhancing accountability within the judicial system.

Contention

As with many legislative amendments, SB2695 may face scrutiny regarding its implications for due process and fairness in the judicial system. Advocates for the bill, likely emphasizing public safety, might argue that it is necessary to ensure that individuals failing to appear for serious crimes are swiftly dealt with. However, opponents could raise concerns about the potential for misuse of the database, arguing that it may negatively affect individuals who might have legitimate reasons for their absence or those who are unfairly labeled as fugitives without adequate review processes.