TN HB2139

Cargo Theft

Passed House Pat Marsh (R)
Plain English Summary

The bill amends various sections of Tennessee law to address issues related to cargo theft, specifically fraudulent freight theft. It aims to strengthen legal measures against those who steal cargo and improve the enforcement of these laws. This legislation is intended to protect businesses and ensure the integrity of freight transportation in the state.

Supporters Say

Supporters of the bill argue that it is a necessary step to combat the growing problem of cargo theft in Tennessee. They believe that by updating and strengthening the laws, it will provide better protection for businesses and help maintain the integrity of the freight industry. This legislation is seen as a proactive measure to safeguard the economy and support local businesses.

Critics Say

Critics of the bill may argue that it could lead to overreach or excessive penalties for minor infractions related to cargo theft. They might express concern that the focus on stricter laws could disproportionately impact small businesses or lead to unintended consequences. Additionally, some may question whether the bill effectively addresses the root causes of cargo theft rather than simply increasing penalties.

Conflict of Interest Analysis Personal Interests
8/10
Risk Level
High
Policy Area
Crime and Law Enforcement
Industry Overlap
0%
Personal Conflicts
0 found

Representative Pat Marsh, the sponsor of HB2139, holds significant personal financial interests in the trucking industry. As the President and owner of Big G Express, Inc., a company directly involved in trucking and freight transportation, Marsh stands to benefit from legislation that addresses cargo theft. The bill aims to make changes to laws concerning fraudulent freight theft, which could potentially enhance the security and operational efficiency of trucking companies, including Big G Express. Additionally, Marsh's role as a board member of the Tennessee Trucking Association further aligns his interests with the trucking industry's regulatory environment. This direct involvement in the industry suggests that the bill could have a favorable impact on his business operations, potentially reducing losses from cargo theft and improving profitability.

Sponsor's Personal Financial Interests

Unlike federal analysis based on campaign donations, state analysis examines legislators' personal financial interests — their jobs, businesses, and investments.

Type Description Industry Source
Occupation Businessman TN Legislature bio
Employer President of Big G Express, Inc. AI-researched
Business Owner Owner of Big G Express, Inc. TN Legislature bio
Board Member Board Member of the Tennessee Trucking Association TN Legislature bio
Employer BIG G EXPRESS & RELATED COMPANIES TN Ethics Commission
Employer BGE INVESTMENTS TN Ethics Commission
Employer SOCIAL SECURITY TN Ethics Commission
Asset FIRST COMMERCE BANK TN Ethics Commission
Asset MORGAN STANLEY Securities & Investment TN Ethics Commission
Asset WELLS FARGO FINANCIAL Commercial Banks TN Ethics Commission
Asset FIRST COMMUNITY BANK TN Ethics Commission
Asset WESTVIEW RENTALS TN Ethics Commission
Asset Leadership PAC: MARSH FOR TENNESSEE BUSINESS PAC TN Ethics Commission

Items marked "AI-researched" are generated from public sources but have not been independently verified. Verified data is sourced from official legislature websites and disclosure filings.

TheBillRoom is free and independent. No ads, no subscriptions, no political funding. If this analysis was useful, reader support keeps it running.
Support Us

About This Analysis

This summary was generated using AI from the bill's official text and metadata. Data sourced from LegiScan and the Tennessee General Assembly. Conflict analysis examines the sponsor's personal financial interests for potential overlaps with the bill's subject matter.