NASHVILLE (AP) — A proposal that would help homeowner associations or neighborhood watch groups keep repeat offenders out of their communities is headed to the governor for his consideration.
The measure, called the "Neighborhood Protection Act," was approved 75-16 in the House on Monday. The Senate passed the proposal 31-1 last week.
Republican Gov. Bill Haslam will review the legislation when it reaches his desk.
Under the proposal, a formally recognized residential entity would be able to petition a judge for a restraining order against repeat criminals that target the inside of its boundaries.
The offender must have been convicted of three or more offenses that occurred inside the residential area.
Democratic House sponsor Antonio Parkinson of Memphis says the legislation is a tool to fight back and help maintain property values.