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SB 2468

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 Paul Bailey

Tennessee requires courts to fine vandalism offenders at houses of worship at least double the documented property damage, enhancing penalties for religious site crimes.

Enrolled and ready for signatures
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Bill Summary · SB 2468

Legislative bill overview

SB 2468 mandates that courts impose a minimum fine of at least twice the documented property damage costs when someone commits vandalism at a house of worship in Tennessee. The bill amends criminal sentencing statutes to create this specific financial penalty requirement alongside any other sentences the court may impose.

Why is this important

Vandalism at religious facilities has occurred across the country, and this bill creates a financial deterrent specifically targeting such incidents. The doubled-damage fine structure aims to both compensate affected communities and potentially deter future offenses, while treating houses of worship differently than other vandalized properties under law.

Potential points of contention

  • Equal protection concerns: Singling out houses of worship for enhanced penalties while other community buildings (schools, community centers, nonprofits) receive standard vandalism penalties raises questions about whether this constitutes government favoritism toward religion
  • Restitution vs. punishment distinction: The law conflates restitution (compensating actual losses) with punishment (the doubled fine), potentially creating disproportionate financial obligations beyond actual harm
  • Enforcement and documentation challenges: Courts must verify exact "cleaning and restoration expenses," which could be subject to disputes about reasonable costs and create administrative burdens
  • Proportionality questions: Mandatory minimum fines may result in sentences inappropriate for low-income offenders or minor incidents, limiting judicial discretion

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

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