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SJR 9

Constitutional Amendments - Proposes an amendment to Article I, Section 35 of the Constitution of Tennessee to expand the rights of victims of crimes. -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee proposes constitutional amendment expanding crime victim rights; passed unanimously in legislature and awaits voter ratification.

Signed by H. Speaker
#constitutionalamendments
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Bill Summary · SJR 9

Legislative bill overview

SJR 9 proposes a constitutional amendment to expand victim rights protections under Tennessee's Constitution, specifically modifying Article I, Section 35. The amendment has passed both chambers with unanimous or near-unanimous support and is now signed by leadership, moving toward voter ratification. The specific expanded rights are not detailed in the available action records, but constitutional victim rights amendments typically address issues like notification, participation, and restitution in criminal proceedings.

Why is this important

Constitutional amendments carry significant weight because they alter fundamental legal protections and are difficult to reverse without future amendment efforts. Victim rights expansions directly affect how criminal justice systems operate and can influence both prosecutorial practices and defendants' procedural protections. The near-universal legislative support suggests broad political consensus, but constitutional changes warrant careful public consideration before ratification.

Potential points of contention

  • Balance with defendant rights: Expanded victim protections could potentially conflict with defendants' due process rights, particularly regarding victim participation in proceedings or access to victim impact information
  • Implementation costs: New victim services and notification requirements may require significant state funding, affecting criminal justice budgets
  • Specificity concerns: Without knowing exact amendments proposed, there's uncertainty about whether the language could be interpreted in ways that create unintended consequences or limit future legislative flexibility

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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