Research & Publications

Though many voters are focused on the presidential election, other races on the ballot – including the state house race – will have a crucial impact on our day-to-day lives, from education to healthcare to public safety and much more.

Learn more about the 2022 Shelby County DA candidates.

Redistricting plays a vital role in our communities and affects the daily lives of all Tennesseans. The drawing of district lines can dictate not only who runs for public office and who is elected, but also how financial resources are allocated for schools, hospitals, roads and more.

Under Shelby County’s current, unconstitutional pretrial system, a person can be held for weeks or longer without a bail hearing with counsel, and ability to pay is not considered when bail is set, leaving those who cannot afford to pay detained indefinitely, even if they are not a flight or safety

The story of money bail's devastating impact on rural communities in Tennessee - as told by the community members themselves

This infographic provides detailed information about money bail in Davidson County, while offering recommendations for alternatives to money bail.

ACLU-TN's report, “Consequences & Costs: Lessons Learned from Davidson County, Tennessee’s Jail Model 287(g) Program,” documents the serious problems with the Davidson County Sheriff’s 287(g) jail program.