Rep. Paul Sherrell passes bill to protect victims of crime

The Tennessee General Assembly this week unanimously passed legislation by State Rep. Paul Sherrell, R-Sparta, to boost transparency and efficiency in the criminal justice process.

House Bill 2221 requires all criminal court clerks in the Volunteer State to provide the Tennessee Sheriff's Association (TSA) with the necessary data for the criminal court notification system, Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE). The free and confidential system allows victims and concerned Tennesseans to
check the status of court cases online, including custody and criminal case information. A victim can register online to receive notifications of custody status updates after a booking occurs.

"This legislation sends a clear message that Tennessee will always support and stand with victims of crime," said Sherrell. "Adequate reporting and notification will promote consistency across our state while protecting victims' rights and ensuring they are not left in the dark throughout the criminal justice process. I'm grateful to my colleagues for standing with me to improve public safety by strengthening transparency and accountability."

Sherrell's proposal will prepare Tennessee for the adoption of Marsy's Law, a proposed constitutional amendment that voters will consider in the Nov. 3 election. The amendment establishes clear and enforceable constitutional rights for victims of crime, including the right to reasonable notice of all public criminal and juvenile delinquency proceedings. House Bill 2221 is a critical step in guaranteeing these rights for all victims in Tennessee.

In 2022, the General Assembly passed legislation expanding the VINE system to the courts. Currently, 87 of Tennessee's 95 counties utilize the program. House Bill 2221 will help bridge this gap by requiring all counties to provide this vital information to protect victims.

The proposal now heads to Gov. Bill Lee's desk. It will immediately take effect upon the governor's signature.

State Rep. Paul Sherrell lives in Sparta and represents District 43 in the Tennessee House of Representatives, which includes Warren and White counties.