From the Tennessean: Lt. Gov. Randy McNally challenges claims that the Tennessee Senate's actions could have prevented the tragic death of 18-year
From the Tennessean: Lt. Gov. Randy McNally challenges claims that the Tennessee Senate’s actions could have prevented the tragic death of 18-year-old Jillian Ludwig, a Bellmont student who was fatally struck by a stray bullet in Nashville.
House Speaker Cameron Sexton blames the Senate for not considering a bill during a special legislative session in August that could have led to the involuntary commitment of the suspect, Shaquille Taylor, facing charges related to Ludwig’s death.
The bill, House Bill 7036, aimed to require involuntary commitment for those deemed an “imminent” threat. McNally disagrees with Sexton’s assessment, stating that no action proposed during the special session would have prevented Ludwig’s death.
The legislation will be re-filed in January, focusing on issues related to involuntary commitment and public safety.
Several bills proposing funding for new mental health beds were considered during the special session.
Sexton emphasizes the importance of involuntarily committing individuals found incompetent to stand trial. State lawmakers plan to reconvene on January 9, 2023.
