Tennessee Senate Bill SB2955

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 49 and Title 67, relative to sales tax proceeds collected on firearms.

Impact

If passed, SB2955 would impact state laws related to the allocation of sales tax revenue, specifically focusing on firearms-related transactions. The establishment of a 'mental health care in Tennessee schools' account is a novel approach to addressing mental health issues among students, aiming to ensure that resources are available specifically for enhancing mental health services in schools. This measure is particularly timely given the increasing attention towards mental health following societal shifts and rising concerns over student well-being.

Summary

Senate Bill 2955 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated by mandating that all sales tax proceeds collected on firearms, ammunition, and firearm accessories be deposited into a dedicated account for mental health care in Tennessee schools. This initiative marks a significant policy shift in how sales tax revenue is allocated, directing funds from firearm sales towards mental health services for students. The bill seeks to enhance the provision of school counselors, therapists, and after-school programs that contribute to positive extracurricular engagement for children, targeting overall mental well-being in educational settings.

Contention

The implementation of SB2955 could lead to various points of contention among lawmakers and the public. Supporters are likely to argue that the bill provides a proactive solution to the urgent need for improved mental health services in schools, especially in light of growing instances of mental health crises among youths. However, opponents may critique the funding sources tied to firearm sales, raising ethical questions about associating mental health services with gun-related revenues. Additionally, some may argue that this could divert necessary resources from other areas of school funding or that the measures to allocate grants may be insufficient to meet the growing demand for mental health support.