Bill > HB0371

This bill amends Tennessee's sentencing requirements for Class A and Class B misdemeanor offenders by mandating that they complete a cognitive behavioral training course when convicted in general sessions court. The course must be available online, offered in multiple languages, cost no more than $100, and include human interaction such as grading and feedback. Offenders are required to pay for the course and provide proof of completion to the court within a specified timeframe, with failure to do so potentially resulting in up to 10 days of confinement for contempt of court. The course provider must be an established online cognitive behavioral services provider with demonstrated effectiveness, offer telephone support, use human facilitators for grading, provide a completion certificate within 72 hours, and supply informational materials to counties at no cost. While counties and municipalities may offer in-person programs, they must also provide an online option that meets the specified requirements. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, with the aim of providing a structured rehabilitation approach for misdemeanor offenders through cognitive behavioral training.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0371&ga=114