Bill > HB2526

This bill modifies existing Tennessee law regarding children in the custody of the Department of Children's Services, primarily by establishing a six-month limit for a child's custody, with the possibility of a six-month extension under specific circumstances. These circumstances include the child needing specialized, evidence-based treatment only available while in custody, or if the child has committed an assault against a staff member at their residential placement, even if not formally charged with assault. The bill also mandates that courts inform children that assaulting staff can lead to extended custody. Furthermore, it establishes a juvenile commitment review task force, composed of representatives from various state departments and legal organizations, to examine system issues and service gaps for children who are dependent and neglected, have pending delinquency allegations, are deemed incompetent, or have exhibited violent behaviors, with the task force required to submit a report with recommendations by February 1, 2027.