Tennessee · 114th Regular Session (2025-2026) · Bill

HB 1721: Criminal Procedure - As introduced, prohibits a court from assessing court costs against a defendant in a criminal proceeding if the defendant is found not guilty by a jury or by a judge following a bench trial on all charges for which the defendant was accused, the prosecution is dismissed or a nolle prosequi is entered by the state, or the charges against the defendant are dismissed by the court. - Amends TCA Title 39 and Title 40.

In committee Last action March 25, 2026: Failed in s/c Criminal Justice Subcommittee of Judiciary Committee

Plain-language summary

HB 1721 is a bill introduced in the Tennessee House on January 20, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: Criminal Procedure - As introduced, prohibits a court from assessing court costs against a defendant in a criminal proceeding if the defendant is found not guilty by a jury or by a judge following a bench trial on all charges for which the defendant was accused, the prosecution is dismissed or a nolle prosequi is entered by the state, or the charges against the defendant are dismissed by the court. - Amends TCA Title 39 and Title 40. Primary sponsor: Shaundelle Brooks (Democratic). Most recent recorded action (March 25, 2026): Failed in s/c Criminal Justice Subcommittee of Judiciary Committee.

Sponsors

Primary sponsor: Shaundelle Brooks (Democratic).