Senate Bill 1599 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Section 40-25-123, by introducing a new subsection that prohibits courts from assessing court costs against defendants under certain conditions. These conditions include instances where the defendant is found not guilty by a jury or judge, when the prosecution is dismissed or a nolle prosequi is entered, or when the charges are dismissed by the court.

The bill aims to alleviate the financial burden on defendants who are not convicted or whose cases are dismissed, thereby promoting fairness in the judicial process. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on July 1, 2026, contingent upon the public welfare.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40-25-123