Bill > SB1015

This bill establishes a comprehensive set of rights for foster children in Tennessee, requiring the Department of Children's Services to implement and enforce these rights through administrative rules. The rights include ensuring foster children receive an appropriate education, live in safe and healthy environments, access necessary medical and mental health services, and have the ability to communicate confidentially with legal representatives without fear of punishment or retaliation. The department must train all employees who interact with foster children about these rights by February 1, 2026 for current staff and within 30 days of hiring for new employees. Additionally, the department must develop age-appropriate materials explaining these rights in consultation with foster care alumni from across the state, provide these materials to foster children within 30 days of entering departmental custody, and review and potentially revise these materials at least every five years. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to improve the protection and support of children in the foster care system by clearly defining and communicating their fundamental rights.

Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB1015&ga=114