Sentencing - As enacted, adds aggravating circumstances for a jury to consider when determining the sentence of a defendant convicted of certain offenses. - Amends TCA Title 39 and Title 40.

HB 1454 amends Tennessee sentencing laws to add 12 new aggravating circumstances that juries must consider when sentencing defendants convicted of certain sexual offenses, primarily those involving children or vulnerable victims. It directly affects defendants convicted of offenses like rape of a child, aggravated rape, or sexual battery where specific factors apply - such as the victim being under four years old, the defendant abusing a position of trust, prior offenses involving minors, or filming the crime. Key provisions include removing victim consent as a mitigating factor for child rape cases and requiring consideration of factors like heinous conduct, use of substances to influence victims, or multiple victims. The bill applies to offenses occurring on or after July 1, 2026, and aims to increase penalties for particularly severe cases. It does not change sentencing ranges but adds specific factors for judicial consideration.