State Prosecutors ‘Denounce’ Gov. Bill Lee’s Veto of Probation Bill as Republican Sponsor Plans to Override in 2026

The Tennessee District Attorneys General Conference (TNDAGC) on Tuesday denounced Governor Bill Lee’s decision to use his veto power for the first time to block legislation that would have allowed the Tennessee Board of Parole to deny early release or parole to convicted criminals based on the facts of each individual’s case.

Despite the legislation passing the Tennessee General Assembly with universal support from Republicans, submitted as Senate Bill (SB) 455 by State Senator Paul Rose (R-Tipton County) and House Bill (HB) 527 by State Representative Rick Scarbrough (R-Oak Ridge), Lee reportedly raised concerns that allowing the board to deny parole for those convicted of major crimes would undo Reentry Success Act, a criminal justice reform bill he signed in 2021.

“Two years later, Tennessee achieved the lowest recidivism rate in state history, meaning fewer crimes and fewer victims. And I am confident that the Board of Parole and other safeguards ensure parole is awarded appropriately,” Lee said of his veto.

In a statement released Tuesday, the TNDAGC said the legislation would have sent “a critical message that serious crimes carry serious consequences,” which the body, composed of district attorneys general from throughout Tennessee, called “the bedrock of public safety.”

“To ignore the gravity and specific facts of an offender’s crime when determining early release eligibility is not only irresponsible, it is dangerous,” stated the TNDAGC in response to Lee’s veto.

The prosecutors then urged lawmakers to override the veto, requiring a simple majority in both the State House and State Senate.

“We are disappointed Governor Lee has chosen to stand in opposition to these goals. His veto sends the wrong message to victims, to law enforcement, and to the citizens of this state,” wrote the TNDAGC. “We implore the legislature to override his decision.”

Scarbrough, who was elected last year and previously served as the police chief of Clinton, Tennessee, has stated that an override is being planned for next year, nonetheless noting his “deep respect” for Lee.

This is Lee’s first use of his veto as governor, though he has previously allowed bills to become law without his signature. Among these was the 2022 “truth in sentencing” legislation that he openly criticized, earning a rebuke from House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R-Crossville), but nonetheless allowed to become law.

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Tom Pappert is the lead reporter for The Tennessee Star, and also reports for The Pennsylvania Daily Star and The Arizona Sun Times. Follow Tom on X/Twitter. Email tips to [email protected].
Photo “Bill Lee” by Bill Lee.