Bill > SB2531

This bill establishes the State Families of Incarcerated Individuals Advisory Board, a nine-member board composed of individuals who are family members of currently or formerly incarcerated people in Tennessee, with appointments made by the Governor, Speaker of the Senate, and Speaker of the House. The board is an independent entity tasked with fostering communication between the Department of Correction and families, strengthening family reunification efforts, building stronger families and communities upon reentry of individuals, and providing feedback to the Commissioner of Correction and legislative committees. The board will meet at least quarterly, with specific meetings dedicated to public comment and collaboration with department and contractor staff to review policies related to family communication, reunification, and reentry. Members will be reimbursed for travel expenses, and the department and any contractors providing correctional services must cooperate with the board. The bill also amends existing law to include the advisory board in a list of state entities and will take effect on July 1, 2026.