Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

Tennessee House Bill HB7023

Introduced
8/16/23  
Refer
8/22/23  
Refer
8/22/23  
Refer
8/23/23  
Refer
8/24/23  
Refer
8/24/23  

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49 and Title 62, relative to law enforcement at schools.

Impact

The bill makes significant amendments to various titles within the Tennessee Code. Specifically, it emphasizes the responsibilities of law enforcement agencies to assign school resource officers in the absence of an existing MOU. By updating the Tennessee Code Annotated, the bill effectively broadens the framework for school security, providing clarity on the role and responsibilities of officers assigned to schools. This legislative action is anticipated to foster a safer environment for educational institutions, especially amidst growing concerns regarding school violence and safety protocols.

Summary

House Bill 7023 aims to enhance security measures in schools by mandating local education agencies (LEAs) to have a school resource officer assigned to each school. If a local board of education has not established a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with a law enforcement agency for this purpose, a law enforcement agency is authorized to assign an officer to the school. This initiative seeks to improve the protection and safety of students and staff during school hours and at school-sponsored events, reflecting an increased effort to address school safety concerns in Tennessee.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB7023 appears to be supportive among many lawmakers and stakeholders concerned with student safety. Advocates argue that having a dedicated police presence in schools can deter potential incidents and promote a safer learning atmosphere. However, there may be concerns regarding the implications of increased police presence on the school environment and community relationships. Discussions have emerged around balancing safety with the need for supportive and nurturing school environments that prioritize student well-being.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB7023 include potential opposition from those wary of the increased police presence in schools, fearing it may disrupt the educational environment or disproportionately affect certain communities. Critics may voice concerns regarding the effectiveness of police in addressing educational challenges compared to educational professionals. Furthermore, the requirement for MOUs could lead to inconsistencies and challenges for LEAs that struggle to establish these agreements with local law enforcement, thereby impacting the bill's implementation and effectiveness across the state.

Companion Bills

TN SB7015

Crossfiled AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49 and Title 62, relative to law enforcement at schools.

Previously Filed As

TN SB7015

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49 and Title 62, relative to law enforcement at schools.

TN HB1664

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49 and Title 62, relative to law enforcement at schools.

TN SB1715

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49 and Title 62, relative to law enforcement at schools.

TN HB1899

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49 and Title 62, relative to school safety.

TN SB2025

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49 and Title 62, relative to school safety.

TN SB7025

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49; Title 62 and Chapter 367 of the Public Acts of 2023, relative to school safety.

TN HB7059

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49; Title 62 and Chapter 367 of the Public Acts of 2023, relative to school safety.

TN HB7063

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49 and Title 62, relative to school safety.

TN SB7094

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49 and Title 62, relative to school safety.

TN HB0214

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 10, Chapter 7, Part 5; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49; Section 55-8-151 and Title 62, relative to school safety.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.