Tennessee House Bill HB1297

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 2/15/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 71, relative to state facilities for the care of children.

Impact

The passage of HB 1297 would enhance the accountability and oversight of child care agencies in Tennessee by necessitating audits to be conducted by the state’s comptroller or other designated public agency auditors. This requirement aims to ensure that state facilities adhere to strict regulatory standards, thus ensuring the safety and well-being of children placed in their care. The legislation seeks to minimize the risks associated with unregulated or poorly regulated child care settings, potentially improving the quality of care children receive.

Summary

House Bill 1297 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 71, specifically regarding state facilities for the care of children. The bill establishes that child care agencies, which are under the direct management or control of state departments or local government entities, must be licensed under this revised statute. This shift aims to ensure proper regulation and oversight of child care facilities that fall under specific jurisdictions, promoting the welfare of children in these care settings.

Contention

While the bill's intent is to reinforce child care standards, it may lead to contention around how the licensing and auditing processes are implemented and managed. Concerns may arise regarding the adequacy of resources allocated for these audits and whether they are stringent enough to catch violations. Furthermore, some stakeholders might argue about the implications for smaller child care providers who may find it more burdensome to comply with state regulations, potentially limiting their operational capabilities or forcing them to close due to increased overhead costs.