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HB 696

Sexual Offenses - As introduced, establishes a sexual assault response team coordinator for the purpose of providing statewide training, support, and technical assistance to and oversight of sexual assault response teams. - Amends TCA Title 4; Title 8 and Title 38.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by John Gillespie

Tennessee establishes a statewide sexual assault response team coordinator to standardize training, support, and oversight of local SART programs across the state.

Taken off notice for cal in s/c Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee of Finance, Ways and Means Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 696

Legislative bill overview

HB 696 establishes a statewide Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) coordinator position within Tennessee state government to provide training, technical support, and oversight to local sexual assault response teams across the state. The bill amends three sections of Tennessee code to implement this new administrative structure and define the coordinator's responsibilities.

Why is this important

Sexual assault response teams are multidisciplinary groups (law enforcement, prosecutors, victim advocates, medical personnel) designed to improve victim care and investigation outcomes. A statewide coordinator could standardize practices, reduce gaps in service, and ensure consistency in how sexual assault cases are handled across urban and rural areas. The bill represents an investment in rape kit processing, victim support services, and investigative protocols that directly affect survivor experiences and case resolution rates.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding and budget impact: The bill creates a new state position with associated salary, office, and operational costs; the Finance, Ways, and Means committee's involvement suggests budgetary concerns about implementation and sustainability
  • Coordinator authority and structure: Unclear whether the position has enforcement power or only advisory capacity, and how it interacts with existing local jurisdictions that may resist state-level oversight
  • Scope creep and mandate requirements: Depending on implementation, statewide training and oversight mandates could impose unfunded compliance burdens on local law enforcement and victim service agencies with limited resources

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

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