Governor Lee allows ‘truth in sentencing’ bill to become law, but says he favors re-entry programs

Gov. Bill Lee has refused to sign the ‘truth in sentencing’ bill, letting it become law without his signature. It requires people convicted of murder, armed burglary, and other crimes to serve out majority of their sentence.

Lee and legislative leaders have had differences over what the long-term effect will be.

Sponsors say eliminating early release for most violent crimes will provide closure for victims. House Speaker Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville, calls it a commonsense approach, saying it’ll lead to fewer crimes and fewer victims.

But Lee says evidence shows the exact opposite. In a letter to the speaker, he wrote that it would result in more victims, increased likelihood of reoffenders, and prison overcrowding, which will add an increased cost to taxpayers.

The Tennessee Department of Correction estimates a decade from now it could cost taxpayers $96 million more a year to house the increase in incarcerated people.