Tennessee Senate Bill SB1270

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 36; Title 49 and Title 67, relative to marriage.

Impact

The proposed amendments will affect existing laws regarding the treatment of children during divorce proceedings. By explicitly including adverse childhood experiences in the considerations during custody and dissolution processes, the bill encourages courts and legal practitioners to take a more holistic view of the child's welfare. This change could potentially lead to more supportive legal frameworks and interventions aimed at protecting the mental health of children affected by separation and divorce.

Summary

Senate Bill 1270 aims to amend several sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to marriage and child welfare. The bill specifically seeks to add provisions that address the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on minors resulting from the dissolution of their parents' marriage. This legislation emphasizes the need to consider the psychological and emotional challenges faced by children in these situations, ultimately aiming to foster a more supportive environment for their well-being.

Contention

While the bill aims to enhance child welfare, it may face scrutiny from those who question its implementation and the practicality of defining and assessing adverse childhood experiences within legal contexts. Critics may express concerns about the additional burden this places on the courts and how these factors could influence custody decisions. Ensuring that the definitions and processes surrounding ACEs are sufficiently clear and actionable will be crucial in mitigating potential disagreements over the bill's interpretation.