Tennessee Senate Bill 11 establishes statewide coordinator for sexual assault response teams

Senate Bill 11 took center stage during the Tennessee Senate Judiciary Committee meeting on March 31, 2025, as lawmakers discussed a pivotal initiative aimed at enhancing support for survivors of sexual assault. The bill proposes the establishment of a statewide coordinator to oversee Sexual Assault Response Teams (SARTs) across Tennessee, addressing critical gaps in leadership, training, and accountability.

Advocates emphasized the need for a unified approach to victim care, highlighting that current efforts lack consistency and oversight. "As it stands today, there's no statewide leadership, no standardized training, and no central accountability," stated a proponent of the bill. The proposed coordinator, to be housed within the Tennessee Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence, would provide essential support, ensuring compliance with best practices and facilitating training for local teams.

The initiative is designed to improve victim care and promote collaboration among law enforcement, medical professionals, and victim advocates. By leveraging existing grants, the bill aims to enhance services without the need for a new government agency. "By passing this bill, we will improve victim care, promote consistency and accountability across all counties," the advocate added.

Witnesses at the meeting, including representatives from local SARTs, shared success stories from their regions, illustrating how coordinated efforts have led to better outcomes for victims. They stressed the importance of tailored responses to the unique needs of different communities, reinforcing the bill's potential impact.

As discussions concluded, committee members expressed support for the bill, which is expected to move forward for a vote. If passed, Senate Bill 11 could mark a significant step toward strengthening the response to sexual assault in Tennessee, ensuring that survivors receive the comprehensive care and support they deserve.