Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

Tennessee Senate Bill SB2804

Introduced
2/1/24  

Caption

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

Impact

The passage of SB2804 is likely to have significant implications for the enforcement of criminal laws within Tennessee. By lowering the standard from two to one, the law could lead to an increase in prosecutions or alterations in the application of certain criminal sanctions. The amendment may streamline legal processes or enhance operational efficiency, but it could also raise concerns about fairness and the potential for overreach in penalizing offenders. Legal professionals and advocates may debate the benefits of such a change versus the risks associated with a heavier hand in criminal justice.

Summary

Senate Bill 2804 is an act designed to amend multiple sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically focusing on Title 38, Title 39, and Title 40, which pertain to criminal offenses. The primary amendment proposed by SB2804 is to reduce the threshold for a specific provision from 'two (2)' to 'one (1)'. This change indicates a shift in the legislative approach to certain criminal offenses, potentially reflecting a desire for increased severity or clarity in law enforcement practices. The bill is positioned within a wider context of criminal justice reform, aiming to enhance the state's legal framework.

Contention

Discussion surrounding SB2804 suggests that its provisions may stir contention among different stakeholders. Opponents of the bill might argue that reducing thresholds could result in unintended consequences, such as an increase in wrongful prosecutions or an overload on the judicial system. Supporters are likely to contend that the simplification of legal standards fosters accountability and better reflects community standards. As the legislative process moves forward, these contrasting views will be crucial in shaping the perceptions and ultimate fate of the bill.

Companion Bills

TN HB2912

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

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.