Rep. Doggett, Local Prosecutors Highlight New Laws Targeting Violent Crime and Opioid Epidemic

State Representative Clay Doggett (R-District 70) and local District Attorneys General are emphasizing a series of new legislative efforts designed to enhance public safety, increase penalties for violent crimes, and combat the opioid epidemic in Tennessee.

Two new laws took effect on July 1, focusing on strengthening sentencing for violent offenders and closing loopholes in the state’s legal code. A third proposal, aimed at reducing the threshold for felony fentanyl possession, did not receive funding during the 2025 legislative session but remains a top priority for future legislative action.

Public Chapter 492 expands the list of crimes classified as “dangerous felonies,” which carry enhanced penalties when a firearm is used during their commission or attempted commission. The updated list now includes first- and second-degree murder, human trafficking, all forms of robbery, and several sexual violence-related offenses. Lawmakers and prosecutors argue that the changes reflect the serious nature of gun-related crime and the need for stronger legal consequences.

Public Chapter 211 addresses an omission in the definition of “crime of violence” by formally including robbery. Previously, only aggravated and especially aggravated robbery qualified under the definition. This change is intended to support firearm possession restrictions for individuals with prior violent convictions and provide consistency in how violent crimes are prosecuted.

A third bill, House Bill 573, proposed reducing the felony possession threshold for fentanyl from 150 grams to 50 grams. While the bill was not funded, it continues to receive strong backing from lawmakers and prosecutors who view it as essential to Tennessee’s strategy for addressing the growing opioid crisis. Supporters believe lowering the threshold would help hold drug traffickers accountable and better protect communities from the devastating impact of fentanyl.

The Tennessee District Attorneys General Conference, formed by the General Assembly in 1961, represents the state’s 32 judicial districts and advocates for legislation that promotes justice and public safety. Additional details are available at www.tndagc.org.