Bill > HB0501

This bill creates the Tennessee Juvenile Justice Review Commission, a comprehensive oversight body designed to examine and improve the state's juvenile justice system. The commission will be composed of 20 members representing various state agencies, legislative bodies, judicial professionals, child development experts, law enforcement, and individuals with direct experience in the juvenile justice system. The commission's primary responsibilities include reviewing a representative sample (up to 10%) of juvenile justice cases and critical incidents involving juveniles in state custody, such as escapes, acts of aggression, self-harm, potential staff abuse, and psychiatric treatment needs. Members will serve four-year terms and are expected to produce detailed annual reports to the General Assembly, with the first comprehensive report due by January 1, 2028. The commission is administratively attached to the Commission on Children and Youth but maintains independence in its operations. To ensure thorough and confidential review, commission members will have access to confidential records, can request testimony from relevant officials, and are required to maintain strict confidentiality during investigatory meetings. The bill also provides immunity from civil and criminal liability for commission members acting in good faith and establishes procedures for handling potential conflicts of interest, with the ultimate goal of identifying systemic concerns and recommending improvements to Tennessee's juvenile justice system.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services, Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0501&ga=114