SB2144

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 40, relative to contraband in penal institutions.

Introduced·1/23/26
Draft Text

Tennessee SB2144 amends the state code to redefine felony classifications for contraband violations in penal institutions.

Tennessee SB2144 modifies the felony classifications for contraband violations in penal institutions. It sets a Class C felony for most violations, escalating to a Class B felony if the violation results in death. Other specific violations are classified as Class D felonies, with a potential increase to Class C felonies if death occurs. Additionally, it introduces a Class E felony for certain violations, with fines for first offenses and increased fines for subsequent offenses, escalating to a Class D felony if death results. The changes take effect July 1, 2026.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Finance, Ways and Means Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

0
1
R
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

SENATE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE: Recommended for passage, refer to Senate Finance, Ways & Means Committee

7 Yea

RRRRRRR

2 Nay

DD

Calendar

Apr 20

1:00 PM

Senate Finance, Ways And Means Hearing

Feb 24

3:00 PM

Senate Judiciary Hearing

History

Apr 20

Senate

Placed on Senate Finance, Ways, and Means Committee calendar for 4/21/2026

Apr 14

Senate

Placed on Senate Finance, Ways, and Means Committee calendar for 4/20/2026

Apr 14

Senate

Placed on Senate Finance, Ways, and Means Committee calendar for 4/21/2026