District 71 Capitol Hill Update with Representative David Byrd

Restitution for children of victims of DUI / Public Chapter 1056 — In the event a parent of a minor child is killed by an intoxicated driver, requires the convicted offender to pay restitution in the form of child maintenance to each of the victim’s children until each child reaches 18 years of age and has graduated from high school or the class of which the child is a member has graduated. The bill requires the court to determine a reasonable payment after considering factors including the financial needs of the child and the financial needs of the surviving parent, among other criteria. Law took effect July 1, 2022

Protecting victims of crime / Public Chapter 1060 — Allows a court to revoke probation or parole for an offender who committed a misdemeanor or a felony if the offender commits a technical violation. The legislation clarifies what constitutes a technical violation. Additionally, it clarifies that contacting a victim is not a technical violation. Law took effect July 1, 2022.

Cracking down on mail-order abortions / Public Chapter 1001— Creates criminal and civil penalties for anyone who provides abortion-inducing drugs through telemedicine and subsequently supplies those drugs via courier, delivery or mail service. Abortions via mail have become increasingly common since the Federal Drug Administration approved telehealth and mail distribution of abortion-inducing drugs in 2020. Current law in Tennessee already bans mail-order abortions. The new law strengthens current law and patient safety measures by putting further restrictions on the use of telemedicine and courier delivery. The measure intends to keep patients from developing serious, life-threatening complications during an unsupervised chemical abortion at home. It creates a Class E felony for anyone who intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly violates this act. Failure to comply with this act provides a basis for a civil action against a healthcare provider. Law takes effect in 2022 and January 1, 2023.

Joe Clyde Daniels Act / Public Chapter 944 – Convicted murderers will have a harder time being granted parole if they do not disclose the location of their victim’s remains. The Joe Clyde Daniels Act requires the board of parole to consider the extent to which the offender obstructed or continues to obstruct the ability of law enforcement to recover the remains of the victim when deciding cases involving an offender convicted of homicide. The bill was prompted by the disappearance of 5-year-old Joe Clyde Daniels from his home in Dickson on April 4, 2018. His father, Joseph Daniels, was convicted of murder in June. However, the child’s remains have never been found. It helps ensure victims can receive a proper burial. Law took effect July 1, 2022.

As always, I am truly humbled and honored to be your voice on Capitol Hill. If there is ever any issue I can assist with, please reach out to my office by calling 615-741-2190 or emailing me at [email protected]