SB2178

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 13, relative to criminal offenses.

Complete·5/18/26

SB2178 amends Tennessee law to increase penalties for patronizing prostitution, especially near schools and involving minors or vulnerable.

SB2178 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 13, to enhance penalties for patronizing prostitution. It classifies patronizing a law enforcement officer or a minor posing as a law enforcement officer as a Class B felony. Engaging with a person who has an intellectual disability or is under eighteen years old is designated as a Class A felony. Patronizing prostitution within 1.5 miles of a school incurs a mandatory minimum of seven days in jail and a $1,000 fine, in addition to other penalties. The act takes effect July 1, 2026.

Included in complete analysis

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

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Sponsors

0
1
R
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

SENATE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE: Recommended for passage with amendment/s, refer to Senate Calendar Committee Ayes 8, Nays 0 PNV 1

8 Yea

RRRRRRDR

0 Nay

1 Not Voting

D

Calendar

Mar 23

12:00 PM

Senate Judiciary Hearing

History

May 18

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 959

Apr 22

Senate

Companion House Bill substituted

Apr 21

Senate

Placed on Senate Regular Calendar for 4/22/2026