Criminal Procedure - As introduced, enacts the "Bearing Witness to the Death Penalty Act." - Amends TCA Title 40, Chapter 23.

SB 1214, the "Bearing Witness to the Death Penalty Act," adds a provision requiring Tennessee legislators to be permitted to witness executions. This bill directly affects members of the Tennessee General Assembly by mandating their inclusion as authorized observers during capital punishment executions. The key mechanism is an amendment to Tennessee Code Annotated § 40-23-116(a), which specifies that legislators may be allowed to witness executions. The bill is procedural in nature, focusing on access for legislators rather than altering execution methods or death penalty eligibility. It was introduced in February 2025 and passed initial Senate votes.