Tennessee House Bill HB0808

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 2/14/23
• Refer: 2/22/23
• Engrossed: 2/28/23
• Enrolled: 3/9/23
• Passed: 3/23/23
• Chaptered: 3/28/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 37, Chapter 5, Part 5, relative to child care agencies.

Impact

The impact of HB 808 is significant as it directly alters existing regulations governing child care agencies in Tennessee. By defining nontraditional agencies and clarifying their operational guidelines, the bill intends to create a clearer framework for agencies involved in the care of children transported across state lines. This could streamline their operations and clarify legal responsibilities, which in turn might influence both the availability and the quality of residential child care services within the state.

Summary

House Bill 808 aims to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 37, Chapter 5, Part 5, specifically focusing on child care agencies. The bill introduces a definition for nontraditional child care agencies, which are identified as providing residential child care for children who must be transported across state lines, exempting such transport from the Interstate Compact on Juveniles and the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children. This move is aimed at clarifying the regulatory landscape for these specific types of child care providers.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 808 appears to be mostly supportive, evidenced by the unanimous floor vote of 30 yeas with no nays recorded on its third consideration. This indicates a general consensus among the legislators that the bill addresses a pertinent issue regarding the regulation of nontraditional child care agencies. Stakeholders involved in child care and child welfare have generally welcomed the bill as a necessary step toward better governance.

Contention

While the bill seems to have broad support, potential points of contention might arise regarding the exemption from the Interstate Compacts. Critics may express concerns that such exemptions could lead to gaps in oversight and protection for children transported across state lines, raising questions about child welfare and safety standards. Moving forward, it will be crucial to monitor how these changes affect operational practices among child care agencies in Tennessee.