Capitol Hill Update from State Representative David Byrd July 28, 2021

   Rape of a Child by a Juvenile – Public Chapter 436 ensures that a juvenile convicted of conduct that would constitute rape, aggravated rape, rape of a child or aggravated rape of a child if committed by an adult would not be able to work or volunteer at a place that would cause the juvenile offender to be in close or frequent contact with children. 

   Sexual Exploitation of Children – Public Chapter 371 provides that Tennessee’s aggravated sexual battery statute has explicit language making the defendant’s subjective purpose of sexual gratification an element of the offense. This provides protection for children from individuals who secretly record children in a state of partial or complete undress for the purpose of sexual arousal or gratification. 

   Lifetime Order of Protection – Public Chapter 60 creates a lifetime order of protection that can be issued to a victim against their offender of certain felony offenses including assault, criminal homicide, attempted homicide, kidnapping or sexual offenses. 

   Expanding Safe at Home Program – Public Chapter 140 expands the Safe at Home Confidentiality Program to cover those family members who could expose the victim if their address became known.  This measure will help protect victims from their abusers. 

   Domestic Violence / Course for Barbers and Cosmetologist – Public Chapter 117 calls for completion of a one-hour domestic violence course as part of the initial licensure education required for barbers and cosmetologists due to the unique relationship these professionals have with their clients who may otherwise be isolated.

   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].