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SB 324

Tennessee Bureau of Investigation - As enacted, enacts "Savanna's Law," which creates a registry of persistent domestic violence offenders; requires the bureau to maintain the registry. - Amends TCA Title 18; Section 38-6-103; Title 39 and Title 40.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Becky Massey

Tennessee establishes a persistent domestic violence offender registry maintained by the state bureau of investigation to track repeat offenders statewide.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 520
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Bill Summary · SB 324

Legislative bill overview

SB 324 enacts "Savanna's Law," which establishes a registry of persistent domestic violence offenders in Tennessee and requires the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation to maintain it. The law amends multiple sections of Tennessee code related to domestic violence offenses and criminal procedure.

Why is this important

Domestic violence registries aim to increase public awareness and law enforcement accountability by tracking offenders with multiple convictions. This can potentially help victims, their families, and at-risk individuals make informed decisions about safety, similar to existing sex offender registries.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy and due process concerns: Offenders on the registry may argue the public designation violates privacy rights or constitutes additional punishment beyond court-ordered sentences
  • Definition and scope disputes: Questions about what qualifies as "persistent" domestic violence and whether the threshold is appropriate could affect who gets listed and for how long
  • Effectiveness and implementation costs: The registry's actual deterrent effect is debated, and the bill requires TBI resources to establish and maintain the system, raising questions about operational costs and staffing requirements

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

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