Criminal Justice

SJR 3 is a Senate Joint Resolution defining antisemitism and urging state agencies to use this definition when assessing discrimination under Tennessee law. It provides 11 specific examples of antisemitism, including denying the Holocaust, accusing Jews of controlling institutions, or comparing Israeli policy to Nazi actions. The resolution encourages state departments, district attorneys (to seek enhanced sentences for antisemitism-motivated crimes), and schools to consider this definition when evaluating discrimination claims based on religion or national origin. It does not create new laws but serves as a policy statement for state entities. This resolution applies directly to Tennessee state government agencies, schools, and law enforcement.

SB 956 reduces waiting periods for expunging certain criminal records in Tennessee. It shortens the required time from 5 years to 3 years for misdemeanors or Class E felonies, and from 10 years to 6 years for Class D felonies after completing a sentence. The bill amends Tennessee Code Sections 40-32-101(g)(2)(B) and (k)(1)(C) to implement these changes. This affects individuals seeking to clear eligible criminal records for specific offense types. The law takes effect July 1, 2025.