Another Day at the Legislature

I spent another afternoon in the Legislature waiting to see if propasals affecting DUI would be voted on and whether I would need to testify. Most were not. The Ignition Interlock bill that applies to .15 B.A.C. offenders, who apply for an ignition interlock was passed in the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Judge Strand of Jefferson County testified about a bill concerning the use of Substitute Judges, which sounded like it was well thought out and helpful. Either side would have the option to continue the case, until the elected Judge is present. The Bill is HB 3586. See it at: http://www.capitol.tn.gov/Bills/106/Bill/HB3586.pdf

My blood began to boil when 3 members of the House Judiciary Committee spoke very poorly of Prosecutors when considering a proposal by Rep. Eddie Bass, that would have sworn citizen warrants against law enforcement officers reviewed by the District Attorney before process would be issued. These legislators appararently think we would conspire with officers to bury valid complaints. The bill, HB 3053, passed 7-4 in the House Judiciary Committee. The Prosecutor discussion is during the last 5 minutes or so. When you hit the link, go to the bill 3053 on the list on the left of the page.
Watch the video for yourself at: http://tnga.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?view_id=33&clip_id=2608