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Bill

SB 1933

Public Records - As introduced, requires the department of correction to disclose records and information to any member of the general assembly, upon written request, to enable the member to determine whether the laws of this state are being complied with regarding inmates in the department's custody. - Amends TCA Title 3; Title 4; Title 10, Chapter 7; Title 40 and Title 41.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Jeff Yarbro

Bill requires Tennessee prisons to provide records to any state legislator on written request to verify legal compliance with inmate custody laws.

Placed on Senate State and Local Government Committee calendar for 3/24/2026
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Bill Summary · SB 1933

Legislative bill overview

SB 1933 requires Tennessee's Department of Correction to provide records and information to any state legislator upon written request, enabling them to verify compliance with state laws regarding inmate custody and treatment. The bill amends multiple sections of Tennessee code governing public records and corrections oversight.

Why is this important

This bill directly affects legislative accountability and transparency in how the state manages its prison system. Legislators currently may face barriers in accessing DOC records, and this bill would create an explicit right to request such information—potentially uncovering compliance issues, misconduct, or systemic problems affecting incarcerated individuals.

Potential points of contention

  • Information security concerns: Critics may argue broad record disclosure to all legislators could compromise prison security, staff safety, or operational details that shouldn't be public
  • Scope and cost burden: The DOC must fulfill potentially numerous requests from 99 state senators and representatives, raising questions about implementation costs and resource allocation
  • "Fishing expedition" risk: Opponents might contend the vague "written request" standard allows legislators to demand extensive records without clear limitations, compared to more structured oversight mechanisms

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

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