Tennessee House Bill HB1727

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/11/24
• Refer: 1/30/24
• Refer: 2/6/24
• Refer: 4/17/24
• Chaptered: 5/13/24
• Passed: 5/13/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 15, Part 4 and Title 40, relative to child endangerment.

Impact

If enacted, the bill will modify existing Tennessee laws regarding child endangerment, significantly increasing the responsibilities of parents and guardians. It mandates a proactive stance from guardians to ensure that children are not placed in potentially harmful situations with individuals required to register as sexual offenders. The law will serve as an additional deterrent against child endangerment by imposing legal penalties for noncompliance.

Summary

House Bill 1727 aims to amend the Tennessee Code regarding child endangerment, specifically within Title 39, Chapter 15, Part 4 and Title 40. The bill introduces a new provision that categorizes a parent or guardian who knowingly allows a child under the age of eighteen to be under the care of a registered sexual offender as committing a Class A misdemeanor. This legislative change is intended to enhance child protection measures and hold guardians accountable for the safety of minors in their care.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 1727 has been positive among child protection advocates and various legislators who see it as a necessary step to improve the safety of minors. Supporters argue that the bill provides essential safeguards and promotes responsible parenting. However, there may also be concerns regarding potential overreach or the challenges in enforcing such regulations effectively.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise regarding the definition of 'knowingly' in the proposed legislation, as well as concerns about the potential stigmatization of individuals who must register as offenders. Some stakeholders might argue that the bill's enforcement could lead to unintended consequences for families, such as increased legal liabilities for parents. The balance between protecting children and ensuring fair treatment for individuals with past offenses will likely be a focal point of the discussion as the bill progresses.