Bill > HB1360

This bill expands Tennessee's definition of child abuse to include situations where a person under 18 witnesses abuse of another child or domestic abuse within their immediate family or household. The legislation introduces new requirements for child reunification after foster care placement, mandating that parents must fully complete their permanency plan responsibilities and ensure the child receives necessary mental health counseling before reunification can occur. Additionally, if domestic abuse was a factor in the child's removal, the permanency plan must include specific services for the parent to address domestic violence. The bill also requires the state to submit semi-annual reports to legislative committees starting in January 2026, detailing the number of children removed due to domestic abuse allegations, including information on their subsequent outcomes such as return home or continued custody by the department. These provisions aim to provide more comprehensive protection and support for children exposed to abusive environments, with a focus on both immediate safety and long-term family healing.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1360&ga=114