Tennessee House Bill HB0017

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/3/23
• Refer: 1/12/23
• Refer: 2/14/23
• Refer: 2/22/23
• Chaptered: 3/23/23
• Passed: 3/23/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 15, Chapter 2, relative to designating May as "Silver Alert Awareness Month."

Impact

The introduction of 'Silver Alert Awareness Month' is expected to enhance public knowledge and understanding of the risks faced by individuals with Alzheimer's and dementia. By recognizing May as a month dedicated to awareness, the legislation reinforces previous efforts to strengthen the Silver Alert law and increase collaboration between law enforcement and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation when dealing with cases of missing individuals with dementia. This should improve response times and outcomes, facilitating the safe return of vulnerable populations.

Summary

House Bill 0017 aims to designate the month of May as 'Silver Alert Awareness Month' in the state of Tennessee. The bill highlights the growing concerns related to Alzheimer's and other dementias, which can lead to individuals wandering away and potential safety risks if not found promptly. With a significant portion of the Tennessee population diagnosed with these conditions, this initiative seeks to raise awareness and improve safety measures related to those who may wander due to cognitive impairments.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB0017 appears to be positive, as it aligns with public health initiatives aimed at raising awareness for vulnerable populations. The general response from legislators and advocates highlights the necessity of such measures to safeguard individuals suffering from cognitive impairments. There is a shared understanding of the importance of community readiness and family planning in preventing tragic outcomes related to wandering incidents.

Contention

While the bill is largely considered beneficial, there may be discussions around the adequacy of resources and support systems needed to effectively implement awareness initiatives. Some critics may argue that simply designating a month of awareness is insufficient without accompanying action plans, education programs, and funding to ensure families are equipped to handle potential emergencies. The aim will often be to balance awareness with concrete measures that will truly aid families and protect those affected.