Bill > SB2021

This bill requires the Commissioner of Human Services to provide the Commissioner of Correction with a food assistance application form for inmates nearing release from state correctional institutions, which are facilities where individuals are held under state law. This application must include options for inmates to decline applying for food assistance, state their reasons for doing so, and even do so anonymously. The Department of Correction will then distribute these applications to all inmates preparing for release, ensuring they have the opportunity and means to complete them before leaving incarceration, and collect them to return to the Department of Human Services. Starting in early 2027 and annually thereafter, the Commissioner of Correction will report to the General Assembly on the number of applications distributed, how many inmates declined assistance, and the reasons provided, while the Commissioner of Human Services will report on the number of inmates approved for food assistance prior to release. The bill also allows for the promulgation of rules to implement these changes, with the rule-making process effective immediately upon becoming law and all other provisions taking effect on July 1, 2026.

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB2021&ga=114