Bill > HB0576

This bill establishes a new Board of Professional Bondsmen in Tennessee to regulate and license bail bondsmen, with significant changes to how professional bondsmen are overseen and disciplined. The bill creates a seven-member board appointed by the Speaker of the House, Governor, and Speaker of the Senate, comprising professional bondsmen, court officials, and law enforcement representatives. Starting March 1, 2026, all professional bondsmen must be licensed by this board, which will maintain a public registry of licensed bondsmen and those who have been disciplined. The board will have the authority to suspend, revoke, or deny licenses based on investigations and violations, and will establish rules for licensure, continuing education, and professional standards. The bill also clarifies that judges retain the discretion to deny a licensed bondsman the ability to post bail in their court, and requires bondsmen to submit to criminal background checks and report arrests. Additionally, the legislation places restrictions on who can serve as a professional bondsman, such as prohibiting active peace officers or county officials from acting in this capacity, with some exceptions. The bill aims to improve accountability and professionalism in the bail bonding industry by creating a centralized regulatory body with clear disciplinary procedures.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0576&ga=114