WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 1633

Sentencing - As introduced, requires a sentencing court to order the sentences for two or more offenses involving more than one minor victim to run consecutively unless the court finds by a preponderance of the evidence that the facts of the case do not warrant the imposition of consecutive sentences and the imposition of consecutive sentences would not be in the best interest of justice. - Amends TCA Title 40.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Tom Hatcher

Tennessee bill mandates consecutive sentences for multi-victim offenses involving minors unless courts find consecutive sentences unjust under preponderance standard.

Placed on Senate Consent Calendar 2 for 4/22/2026
#sentencing
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1633

Legislative bill overview

SB 1633 modifies Tennessee sentencing law to require consecutive (back-to-back) sentences when a defendant is convicted of multiple offenses involving different minor victims. Courts may only impose concurrent (simultaneous) sentences if they find by preponderance of evidence that consecutive sentences don't serve justice.

Why is this important

This bill restricts judicial discretion in sentencing decisions involving crimes against children, potentially resulting in significantly longer prison sentences for offenders. It reflects a policy choice to prioritize punishment consistency and victim protection over individualized sentencing considerations.

Potential points of contention

  • Judicial discretion vs. mandatory minimums: Limits judges' ability to consider case-specific circumstances and may conflict with sentencing principles that allow individualization based on factors like defendant age, prior record, or rehabilitation potential
  • "Best interest of justice" standard: The preponderance of evidence threshold and vague "best interest" language could create litigation disputes and uneven application across different judges and counties
  • Proportionality concerns: Requiring consecutive sentences for multiple-victim crimes could result in de facto life sentences even for non-violent offenses, raising questions about proportional punishment and rehabilitation opportunities

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

Sign in to ask a question.