Tennessee House Bill HB2142

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/24
• Refer: 1/31/24
• Refer: 2/13/24
• Refer: 2/21/24
• Engrossed: 3/7/24
• Enrolled: 3/27/24
• Passed: 4/16/24
• Chaptered: 4/22/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 37, Chapter 1, Part 1 and Title 49, Chapter 6, relative to students who have been adjudicated delinquent.

Impact

The proposed revisions to Tennessee Code Annotated are expected to bring significant changes to how schools receive information about students' delinquent pasts. This law will formalize the process by which schools can inquire about such records, thus fostering a more informed school environment. This can ultimately influence school policies and procedures regarding student support and disciplinary actions. Additionally, transitioning from a misdemeanor classification could potentially affect how such cases are handled administratively by schools.

Summary

House Bill 2142 aims to amend existing Tennessee laws concerning students who have been adjudicated delinquent. The bill mandates that parents or guardians of such students must inform school administrators about the delinquency status whenever a student is enrolled, resumes attendance after suspension, or transfers schools. The underlying purpose of this legislation is to ensure that schools have the necessary information regarding students' delinquent behavior, thereby allowing for better management and support to aid in their educational journey.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB2142 appears to be supportive among legal and educational stakeholders who believe that enhanced information flow between families and schools can help address issues of juvenile delinquency more effectively. However, there are concerns about privacy and the potential stigmatization of students who have been adjudicated delinquent. Some advocate for a balanced approach that considers the sensitivity of students' prior records while still striving for transparency in the educational setting.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the implications of requiring parents and guardians to disclose information regarding delinquency, which some consider invasive. Critics argue that such requirements could deter parents from being forthcoming about their child's history for fear of negative repercussions, potentially hindering the rehabilitation process. The bill's stipulation to change the classification from a 'Class C' to a 'Class B misdemeanor' has also raised questions regarding its impact and appropriate categorization within the legal framework.