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SB 1862

Correction, Dept. of - As introduced, increases from 90 to 100 days of receiving a valid judgment of conviction for when the department has to notify the victim witness coordinator of the scheduled parole hearing date when the inmate will be eligible for parole consideration. - Amends TCA Title 39 and Title 40.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee extends parole hearing notification deadline for victims from 90 to 100 days post-conviction, shortening victim preparation time by 10 days.

Introduced, Passed on First Consideration
#correction #dept.of
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Bill Summary · SB 1862

Legislative bill overview

SB 1862 extends the Department of Correction's notification deadline to victims' witness coordinators about parole hearing dates from 90 days to 100 days following a valid conviction judgment. This applies specifically to cases where inmates become eligible for parole consideration. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Titles 39 and 40.

Why is this important

Victim notification about parole hearings is a critical component of victim rights in the criminal justice system, allowing victims and their families to prepare statements, gather evidence, or attend hearings. This 10-day extension directly affects the timeline victims have to organize their response to potential parole releases, though the practical impact depends on how quickly victims are informed within that 100-day window.

Potential points of contention

  • Victim notification delays: Extending the deadline by 10 days gives victims less advance warning before parole hearings occur, potentially limiting their ability to prepare and participate in the process
  • Implementation burden vs. necessity: Unclear why the increase is necessary—whether current 90-day timelines are proving unworkable or if this represents an arbitrary adjustment
  • Equity concerns: The change may disproportionately affect victims with limited resources or those in rural areas who need more time to coordinate attendance or submit statements

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

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