Bill > HB0797

This bill introduces new requirements for juvenile courts in Tennessee regarding detention facilities and court proceedings. It defines an "approved detention facility" as a licensed detention center for juveniles under court supervision. The bill mandates that when a county provides such a facility with a courtroom, the juvenile court must use that dedicated courtroom for conducting proceedings related to detained youth. The primary purpose is to minimize the potential humiliation and public exposure of children in custody by reducing unnecessary transportation and public visibility. The bill specifically aims to protect juveniles by allowing them to participate in court proceedings within the same facility where they are detained, while ensuring the courtroom meets minimum security standards set by the administrative office of the courts. The legislation does not apply if the juvenile court has a pre-existing written agreement with another agency or institution for managing the detention facility. The new law is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, with the stated intent of serving the public welfare by creating a more sensitive and appropriate legal process for handling juvenile cases.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0797&ga=114