Tennessee Senate Bill SB2665

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39; Title 40 and Title 55, relative to global positioning monitoring.

Impact

The implementation of SB2665 will affect how courts in Tennessee handle bail conditions for defendants charged with serious crimes. This legislation aims to standardize the use of GPS monitoring for individuals arrested under specific circumstances, potentially leading to an increase in the number of offenders under supervision prior to trial. The bill mandates monthly reporting by clerks of courts to track compliance, which will help in analyzing the impact of this monitoring system. The annual compilation of these reports will also aim to improve accountability within the judicial system.

Summary

Senate Bill 2665 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated to introduce regulations concerning the use of global positioning monitoring systems as a condition of bail for certain criminal offenses. This bill requires that defendants arrested for specified serious offenses, particularly those related to violence, weapon possession, and domestic assault, wear a GPS monitoring device unless the court determines they do not pose a threat to victims or public safety. The inclusion of this technology is intended to enhance public safety and ensure compliance with bail conditions.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SB2665 could stem from its implications on the rights of defendants, especially concerning the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. Critics may argue that mandatory GPS monitoring can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, adding an additional level of scrutiny that may not be appropriate for all defendants. Additionally, concerns may arise regarding the operational costs and privacy issues associated with GPS monitoring, as well as the effectiveness of such measures in preventing recidivism or ensuring compliance with court orders.