SB1659

SB1659 amends Tennessee sentencing laws for criminal offenses, particularly focusing on rape of a child and aggravated rape of a child.

SB1659 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 40, to modify sentencing for criminal offenses. It introduces new aggravating factors for sentencing, including when the defendant committed aggravated rape of a child against a victim under four years old, committed incest, or was in a position of trust over the victim. It also adds factors such as filming the offense, using a deadly weapon, or knowing the victim was mentally or physically helpless. The bill takes effect July 1, 2026, and applies to offenses committed on or after that date.