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HB 2309

Criminal Offenses - As introduced, requires that if a vandalism offense occurred at a house of worship, the sentencing court to include as part of the sentence a fine of no less than two times the total amount of any property damage or loss or cleaning and restoration expenses incurred by the house of worship as a result of the offense. - Amends TCA Title 29 and Title 39.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Michele Carringer

Tennessee bill mandates courts impose fines of at least double property damage costs when vandalism targets religious sites, limiting judicial sentencing discretion.

Rec. for pass by s/c ref. to Finance, Ways, and Means Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 2309

Legislative bill overview

HB 2309 mandates that courts impose mandatory fines in vandalism cases targeting houses of worship, requiring fines of at least double the documented property damage, cleaning, and restoration costs. The bill amends Tennessee criminal code sections governing sentencing and offenses.

Why is this important

Vandalism at religious sites can cause real financial and emotional harm to faith communities. This bill creates a specific financial deterrent and restitution mechanism for this category of crime, potentially affecting sentencing outcomes in a growing area of concern.

Potential points of contention

  • Mandatory minimum concerns: Fixed sentencing formulas limit judicial discretion to consider individual circumstances, potentially creating disproportionate penalties for defendants with limited means
  • Constitutionality questions: "Double damages" as a criminal fine (rather than civil restitution) may raise Eighth Amendment proportionality challenges and blur lines between restitution and punishment
  • Definition scope: The bill's applicability depends on how "house of worship" is defined—ambiguity could create inconsistent enforcement or disputes about which properties qualify
  • Enforcement disparity: May create disparate impact if vandalism at certain types of worship sites receives disproportionate prosecution or sentencing relative to identical damage at secular community buildings

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

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