NASHVILLE (AP) - A proposal to crackdown on domestic violence is advancing in the Senate despite its financial impact on local governments.
The measure, which is an administration bill, passed the Senate Judiciary Committee 7-0 on Tuesday.
It adds fines and jail time for second and subsequent convictions of domestic assault. The cost to local governments would be over $8 million because those convicted would serve their time in local jails.
Republican Sen. Doug Overbey of Maryville, who is carrying the bill, said Gov. Bill Haslam has appropriated close to $800,000 in his budget for the legislation.
Overbey said he's spoken with the administration and hopes to find ways to lessen the impact on local governments.
The companion bill is awaiting a vote in the House Judiciary Committee.