(NASHVILLE) — This week, House Republican lawmakers unanimously approved legislation sponsored by Representative Bryan Terry (R-Murfreesboro) designed to protect the identities of Tennessee minors who fall victim to crimes, including sexual crimes.
House Bill 344 limits public accessibility to the identities of minor victims of crimes, unless a court waives confidentiality at the request of the victim’s parent or legal guardian. This legislation designates as confidential a minor’s name, contact and personal information — including social security number — as well as photo or video evidence of the crime and any relationship between the minor and offender. It does not hinder the ability of law enforcement agencies and legal representatives to prosecute offenders in order to ensure that justice is served.
“Those who have suffered from these types of atrocities should not be subjected to additional emotional or psychological damage caused by having their identities and other sensitive information revealed to the public,” said Representative Terry. “This bill protects the victims and also ensures that offenders will be held accountable for their despicable actions.”
The full text of House Bill 344 can be accessed by visiting the Tennessee General Assembly website at: http://www.capitol.tn.gov/Bills/110/Bill/HB0344.pdf
Bryan Terry serves as Chairman of the House Health Subcommittee. He is also a member of the House Health and House Civil Justice Committees. Terry lives in Murfreesboro and represents House District 48, which includes part of Rutherford County. He can be reached by email at: [email protected] or by calling (615) 741-2180.
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