The 2024 session successfully came to a close yesterday marking the end of the 113th General Assembly. The GOP Supermajority, led by Speaker Sexton, carried into law a slate of conservative policies that prioritized public safety, economic development, rural health care, education, and conservation.
“I’m proud of the 113th General Assembly and the work they put in to become one of the most tough on crime legislatures in TN’s history. Thankful for the hard work and long nights from our members and staff.” -Speaker Sexton
Tough on Crime
The General Assembly passed legislation that continues Tennessee’s efforts to improve public safety and provides proactive measures to combat illegal immigration. Tennessee is a law-and-order state that values and appreciates its law enforcement and first responders. These investments include:
- $4.4 million to implement blended sentencing to address juvenile crime
- $17 million for 60 new Tennessee State Trooper positions
- $6.4 million for military border deployment of Tennessee National Guard
- $3.3 million for mental health evaluations / treatment for certain misdemeanor defendants
- Increased protections for law enforcement officers from assault
- Prioritized public safety when setting bond amounts (HB1642)
- Increased protections for domestic violence victims
Education
The House continues to increase funding and resources at our public schools while still protecting students from political indoctrination in the classroom. Some of the top achievements include:
- $30 million for summer learning programs
- $3.2 million for AP courses to students across rural and urban Tennessee
- $2.5 million to strengthen students’ reading and phonics skills
- Ensuring AI regulations in education (HB1630)
- Allow college students to protect themselves on campus (HB1909)
- Improved school safety by allowing school faculty and staff to participate in voluntary training programs for crisis management
- Funded Opportunity Schools to help our state’s most at-risk youth.
More Highlights
Death penalty option for child rapists heads to governor’s desk.
Debbie and Marie Domestic Violence Protection Act approved.
Republicans increase protections for children from adult content online.
General Assembly approves penalties for abortion trafficking.
Tennessee Prevention of Drunk Driving Act approved.
Public school therapy dog pilot program approved.
Chris Wright Act targets habitual misdemeanor offenders.
New law protects drivers from predatory car booting.
General Assembly keeps guns from violent juvenile offenders.
Juvenile blended sentencing bill passes in General Assembly.
Lawmakers crack down on illegal street racing, road-blocking.
Assisted Care Living Facility Improvement Fund approved.
Unified court system streamlines judiciary.
Expanding TennCare access for disabled Tennesseans.
Republicans increase mental health care access.
