Bill > SB1241

This bill expands Tennessee's definition of child abuse to include situations where a person under 18 years old witnesses abuse of another child or domestic abuse within their immediate family or household. The bill introduces new requirements for reunification between parents and children placed in foster care due to abuse, mandating that parents must complete their permanency plan responsibilities and that the child must receive necessary mental health counseling before reunification can occur. Additionally, the bill requires the state to include domestic violence services in the parent's statement of responsibilities when a child is placed in foster care due to witnessing or experiencing domestic abuse. The legislation also mandates that state authorities provide semiannual reports to legislative committees starting in January 2026, detailing the number of children removed from homes due to domestic abuse allegations, including information about their placement outcomes. These provisions aim to better protect children exposed to domestic violence and ensure more comprehensive support and rehabilitation for families experiencing abuse.

Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB1241&ga=114