Tennessee House Bill HB1675

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/24
• Refer: 1/10/24
• Refer: 2/6/24
• Refer: 2/14/24
• Refer: 2/21/24
• Refer: 2/27/24
• Engrossed: 3/4/24
• Enrolled: 3/5/24
• Passed: 3/15/24
• Chaptered: 3/26/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 37-1-102 and Section 37-2-422, relative to the department of children's services.

Impact

The passing of HB 1675 will directly influence the provisions related to child custody and care arrangements in Tennessee. By formalizing financial support for relative caregivers, it emphasizes the importance of keeping children within their family networks rather than placing them into state foster care systems. This change is expected to encourage more relatives to step forward as caregivers, ultimately aiming to enhance the stability and welfare of children in the state.

Summary

House Bill 1675 aims to amend sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning the Department of Children's Services, specifically focusing on the financial support provided to relative caregivers. The bill stipulates that eligible relative caregivers, who are not foster parents but have legal custody of a child, will receive fifty percent of the full foster care board rate. This is designed to provide financial assistance to relatives who take in children when the state is not involved, acknowledging the crucial role relatives play in child welfare.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be supportive, particularly among those who advocate for child and family welfare. Proponents argue that the bill acknowledges the financial burdens faced by relatives and recognizes the need for additional resources to ensure children can remain with family members. However, discussions likely included contrasting opinions regarding the adequacy of the support offered and the potential implications for state finance.

Contention

Although no strong points of contention were highlighted in the discussions and voting history surrounding HB 1675, underlying concerns may arise related to the sustainability of funds allocated for this purpose. With the state making a commitment to provide ongoing financial assistance to relatives, some legislators may raise questions about the budgetary impacts and whether the state can maintain such provisions in the long term without affecting other areas of child services.