Story perspectives

Tennessee Launches First Domestic Violence Offender Registry in 2026

1/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Tennessee will launch the nation's first domestic violence offender registry on January 1, 2026 under Savanna’s Law.
The registry tracks repeat domestic assault offenders, with victim consent.
The law was inspired by Deputy Savanna Puckett’s 2022 murder by an ex-boyfriend with a history of domestic violence.
Advocates say the registry will help victims identify abusers and assess risks.
The initiative aims to prevent further violence and provide accountability for offenders.

History

Historical Context

The Violence Against Women Act, enacted in 1994, significantly increased funding for domestic violence programs in the U.S. Following the tragic murder of Samantha Josephson in March 2019, which highlighted rideshare safety issues, new laws like Sami's Law were introduced to enhance protections for passengers. Tennessee's upcoming domestic violence offender registry aims to track repeat offenders and improve victim safety.

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Story summary

Tennessee will launch the nation's first domestic violence offender registry on January 1, 2026 under Savanna’s Law.
The registry tracks repeat domestic assault offenders, with victim consent.
The law was inspired by Deputy Savanna Puckett’s 2022 murder by an ex-boyfriend with a history of domestic violence.
Advocates say the registry will help victims identify abusers and assess risks.
The initiative aims to prevent further violence and provide accountability for offenders.

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