Bill > SB0601

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for electronic monitoring providers in Tennessee's pretrial release system, creating detailed requirements for private entities that provide electronic monitoring services for defendants. The legislation mandates that electronic monitoring providers must apply for qualification with local government entities, submit extensive documentation including criminal background checks for employees, maintain at least $1 million in liability insurance, and enter into written agreements specifying their responsibilities. Providers must offer 24/7 continuous monitoring, immediately report any violations or irregularities, maintain confidential records, and ensure their directors and employees meet specific educational, professional, and ethical standards. The bill also requires providers to verify defendant identities, provide clear instructions about monitoring device usage, install devices professionally, and offer customer support and technical troubleshooting. Importantly, the legislation prohibits certain individuals from owning or working for monitoring providers to prevent conflicts of interest, such as judges, law enforcement officers, or bondsmen. The bill additionally clarifies the providers' liability protections, establishes protocols for handling payment issues, and requires providers to notify courts if defendants fail to pay monitoring costs, with a subsequent show cause hearing to determine how to address the financial shortfall. The new regulations aim to create more standardized, professional, and accountable electronic monitoring services in the Tennessee criminal justice system, with the provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0601&ga=114