The sixth week of the 113th General Assembly is now complete. Lots of legislation is moving through committees, but I wanted to update you on a few key pieces that are being passed through the Senate.

Legislation advances to hold parents accountable for child’s delinquent actions

In the Senate Judiciary Committee, I voted in support of the Parent Accountability Act which aims to create accountability for parents with delinquent children. Under the legislation, judges would have the discretion to fine parents or guardians instead of the child for their delinquent actions after their first offense. This bill is designed to incentivize parents to pay closer attention to their children. This restitution order could help prevent more victims of crimes because of parents taking more control of their kids. If the parent is unable to pay the fine, community service is an alternative option.

Supporting Israel

Last week, I updated you on an important resolution that was moving through the Senate. This week, Senate Joint Resolution 870 passed the Senate floor. This resolution expresses support for the State of Israel and the Israeli people, condemns the violent events of October 7, 2023 and affirms Tennessee is an unequivocal supporter of Israel’s right to exist and defend itself against terror and threats. It expresses hope that Israel and its neighbors can live in freedom and peace with mutual recognition of dignity and autonomy.

Proposed Constitutional Amendments: Giving judges more discretion to deny bail for violent crimes

The Senate Judiciary Committee also approved a new proposal to expand judges’ ability to deny bail for certain violent crimes when it is in the best interest of public safety. Current law limits judges’ ability to deny bail to first-degree murder charges. If ratified by voters, Senate Joint Resolution 919 would allow judges to deny bail for those charged with violent offenses of terrorism, second-degree murder, aggravated rape and grave torture. It would also allow judges to deny bail for violent offenses that would require the defendant, if convicted, to serve at least 85 percent of their entire sentence under the state’s Truth in Sentencing law. Under the measure, judges could only deny bail when the proof is evident or the presumption of guilt is great. It also would require judges to place into the record the reason for denying bail. The resolution now advances to the Senate floor to be read and voted on by the full Senate.

Prohibiting a state property tax

The Judiciary Committee advanced another proposed constitutional amendment which would prohibit a state property tax. Tennessee has not had a state property tax since 1949, and House Joint Resolution 81 seeks to ensure that one can never be implemented by a future General Assembly. This constitutional amendment would protect Tennessee taxpayers by entirely eliminating the option for a state property tax to ever be imposed on Tennesseans again. The resolution was passed by the House of Representatives in the 2023 legislative session. It now advances to the Senate floor to be considered by the full Senate for the first time.