114th General Assembly: Tennessee Gets Tough on Crime & Stands with Those Who've Been Wronged

Public safety is government's most fundamental responsibility. When criminals face weak consequences and victims are ignored, communities suffer and families live in fear. During the 114th General Assembly, Tennessee Republicans passed comprehensive legislation to protect victims, strengthen criminal penalties, and support law enforcement officers who risk their lives to keep us safe.

Putting Victims First:

Marsy's Law (Constitutional Rights for Victims): We passed a constitutional amendment ensuring crime victims have enforceable rights throughout the criminal justice process. For too long, our system has focused on criminals' rights while ignoring the needs of those who've been wronged. Victims now have the right to be informed, present, and heard during legal proceedings, plus protection from intimidation.

Savanna's Law (Domestic Violence Registry): We established a comprehensive registry to track repeat domestic violence offenders, giving law enforcement and potential victims better tools to identify dangerous individuals with histories of abuse. This law honors victims whose tragic stories remind us that domestic violence often escalates without intervention.

Enhanced Criminal Penalties:

Tougher Vehicular Homicide Penalties: We strengthened penalties for those who kill others through reckless driving. When someone's criminal negligence behind the wheel takes a life, they must face serious consequences that reflect the devastating impact on families and communities.

Constitutional Amendment on Bail: We passed a constitutional amendment allowing judges to deny bail to defendants charged with violent offenses who pose a danger to the community. Violent criminals shouldn't be released to commit more crimes while awaiting trial.

Expanded Sex Offender Penalties: We increased penalties for those who prey on children and vulnerable adults. Sex offenders destroy lives and families - they deserve the harshest consequences our justice system can deliver.

Defined Robbery as Violent Crime: We properly classified robbery as a crime of violence, ensuring appropriate penalties for those who use force or intimidation to steal from others and triggering enhanced sentencing guidelines.

Addressing Modern Criminal Threats:

PEACE Act (Combating Hate Crimes): We strengthened penalties for hate crimes while enhancing public safety measures. Crimes motivated by hatred toward specific groups create fear throughout entire communities, and enhanced penalties send a clear message that such behavior won't be tolerated.

Tougher THC Distribution to Minors: We created more substantial penalties for those who distribute THC products to children. As marijuana laws change across the country, we must ensure children are protected from harmful substances that damage developing brains.

Human Smuggling Offense: We created specific criminal penalties for human smuggling and trafficking. These crimes exploit vulnerable people while enriching criminal organizations, and our new laws give prosecutors better tools to fight trafficking networks.

Supporting Justice and Mental Health:

Mental Health Evaluations for Certain Crimes: We required mental health evaluations for those convicted of certain crimes, including child abuse and animal cruelty. Research shows connections between violence against animals and violence against humans, helping identify dangerous individuals who may pose ongoing threats.

Expanded Good Samaritan Law: We extended Good Samaritan protections to include alcohol overdoses, encouraging individuals to seek help in medical emergencies without fear of legal consequences. This law saves lives by removing barriers to emergency assistance.

Tennessee remains safe because we take crime seriously. We don't make excuses for criminals or blame society for individual choices. We hold people accountable for their actions and support victims who deserve justice.