Bill > SB0444

This bill creates the Tennessee Juvenile Justice Review Commission, a diverse 21-member body tasked with reviewing a sample of juvenile justice cases and critical incidents involving juveniles in state custody. The commission will include representatives from various state agencies, legislative branches, juvenile courts, law enforcement, child development experts, and individuals with personal experience in the juvenile justice system. The commission is charged with examining cases involving repeat juvenile offenders or systemic concerns, such as out-of-state placements, extended detention, or placement instability. Critical incidents they may review include escapes, aggression, self-harm, staff abuse allegations, and psychiatric treatment needs. The commission must submit annual reports to the General Assembly by January 1, 2028, providing findings and legislative recommendations. Meetings will be mostly closed to protect confidentiality, but the commission will conduct periodic public sessions to share aggregate findings. Members will not be compensated but can receive travel expense reimbursement. The commission is administratively attached to the Commission on Children and Youth and is granted broad authority to request information from state agencies, conduct research, and hold hearings, with provisions ensuring member immunity and establishing conflict of interest policies.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0444&ga=114