Tennessee Senate Bill SB2885

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 3, Part 6; Title 40 and Title 41, relative to recidivism.

Impact

This legislation marks a significant move toward evidence-based policy making in the field of criminal justice. By requiring annual reporting, the bill facilitates transparency and accountability within correctional facilities. The availability of data on the efficacy of programs aimed at rehabilitation could inform future legislative priorities and promote successful interventions for reducing reoffending rates. Furthermore, the statistical context provided in these reports will enable lawmakers to assess the progress of the Department of Correction in achieving its goals.

Summary

Senate Bill 2885 aims to address recidivism in Tennessee by amending existing statutes within the Tennessee Code Annotated. The bill mandates that the commissioner of correction produce an annual report detailing the effectiveness of efforts to reduce recidivism among offenders released from custody. This report is to be submitted by February 1 each year to relevant committees, thereby ensuring legislative oversight over correctional programs and their outcomes.

Contention

While the intent of SB2885 is to improve public safety and reduce repeated offenses, there may be contention regarding the resources allocated for the implementation and evaluation of these programs. Critics may argue about the feasibility of robust data collection and reporting, particularly if the Department of Correction lacks the necessary funding or infrastructure. Additionally, there could be debate about the methodologies used in assessing program effectiveness, with calls for independent audits or evaluations to ensure objectivity in the reported results.