Tennessee Senate Bill SB1351

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8; Title 10, Chapter 7, Part 5 and Title 38, Chapter 6, relative to the Tennessee bureau of investigation.

Summary

SB1351 requires the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) to keep copies of all original investigative materials in the case file for each investigation it conducts. The bill defines “investigative materials” broadly to include audio and video files, recordings, transcripts, documents, reports, paperwork, and other print or digital media generated by the bureau and related to an investigation. In practical terms, the measure creates a record-retention requirement for TBI investigations and applies it to all original materials associated with a case file. The bill is framed as an administrative change to TBI’s handling of investigative records rather than a change to criminal penalties, investigative authority, or public disclosure rules.

Impact

The bill would amend Tennessee Code Annotated Title 38, Chapter 6 by adding a new section directing the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation to preserve original investigative materials with each case file. This would affect TBI recordkeeping practices, internal file management, and potentially how investigative records are maintained for later review, auditing, litigation, or evidentiary purposes. It does not expressly alter public records access, confidentiality classifications, or criminal procedure, but it could influence how those existing laws are applied to TBI-held materials.

Sentiment

Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee debate or votes, the overall sentiment appears neutral and administrative. The proposal seems aimed at improving documentation and preservation of investigative records, which is generally consistent with transparency, accountability, and case-management interests. No formal opposition, amendments, or recorded controversy are available in the provided materials.

Contention

No specific points of contention are documented in the available committee transcripts or voting history. Potential areas of concern, if raised, would likely involve the administrative burden on the TBI, storage and retention costs, and whether the bill could affect confidentiality or disclosure of sensitive investigative files. However, the provided record does not show any identified opponents or supporters making those arguments.