WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HJR 48

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) Introduced by Cameron Sexton

Tennessee seeks constitutional amendment expanding victims' rights protections in criminal cases, advancing through legislative review process toward voter ratification.

Sponsor(s) Added.
#constitutionalamendments
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJR 48

Legislative bill overview

HJR 48 proposes a constitutional amendment to Article I, Section 35 of the Tennessee Constitution to expand victims' rights in criminal proceedings. The bill has recently been substituted with language from SJR 9 and is currently moving through the legislative calendar process. As a joint resolution, passage would require legislative approval before submission to Tennessee voters for final ratification.

Why is this important

Constitutional amendments represent fundamental changes to state governance and individual rights protections. Expanding victims' rights affects how criminal justice systems operate, influencing victim participation in proceedings, access to information, and restitution processes. This could reshape the balance between defendant protections and victim protections in Tennessee courts.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of expansion unclear: The bill's specific language about which victims' rights are being expanded is not detailed in available records, making it difficult to assess whether proposed changes are narrowly or broadly tailored
  • Potential impact on defendant due process: Expanded victim rights may create tension with existing defendant constitutional protections, particularly regarding victim participation in sentencing or evidence presentation
  • Implementation and resource costs: Constitutional victim rights amendments often require significant court system changes, training, and funding that legislatures must subsequently appropriate

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

Sign in to ask a question.