TBA Law Blog

TBA Law Blog

‘Truth In Sentencing’ Bill to Become Law Without Lee's Signature

Posted by: Stacey Shrader Joslin on May 6, 2022

Gov. Bill Lee has declined to sign a “truth in sentencing” bill championed by legislative Republicans, The Tennessee Journal reports. Under the final version of the bill, those convicted of nine categories of crimes, including murder, vehicular homicide and carjacking, would be required to serve 100% of their sentences. Those convicted of 17 other violent offenses — such as aggravated assault, reckless homicide or possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony — would be required to serve 85% of their sentences. In declining to sign the bill, Lee said, “Data does not support the basic premise of the legislation ... Similar legislation has been enacted before and resulted in significant operational and financial strain, with no reduction in crime. Widespread evidence suggests that this policy will result in more victims, higher recidivism, increased crime, and prison overcrowding, all with an increased cost to taxpayers.” The bill passed the House on a vote of 86-9 and 20-7 in the Senate. It will become law without Lee’s signature.

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