Individuals who violate an order of protection in Tennessee could face a fine of up to $500 under a proposal advancing in the Senate.
The measure (SB3100) sponsored by Democratic Sen. Beverly Marrero of Memphis was unanimously approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday.
Violators are currently fined $50. But Marrero’s proposal would give a court authority to fine a person as much as $500.
Twenty-year-old Caitlin Nolan testified before the committee about her experience with an abusive boyfriend. She says the legislation is necessary to hopefully deter a violator from further violence.
The companion bill is awaiting a vote in the House Judiciary Civil Practice Subcommittee.
