Tennessee House Bill HB2410

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24
• Refer: 2/1/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 37 and Title 49, relative to child abuse.

Impact

One of the significant impacts of HB2410 is the mandatory annual child abuse training for all employees and officials working directly with children at these educational institutions. This provision ensures that staff are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to identify and report any instances of abuse or neglect, thereby reinforcing child safety in educational environments. The legislation intends to mitigate cases of underreporting and ensure that all educational institutions are aligned with state policies on child protection.

Summary

House Bill 2410 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning child abuse reporting requirements in educational settings. Specifically, it enhances the obligations of schools and childcare agencies to ensure compliance with abuse reporting laws. Under this bill, both public and private educational entities must fulfill specific requirements to maintain their legitimacy as institutions where students can fulfill attendance mandates. This emphasizes the critical role these institutions play in reporting child abuse and neglect incidents.

Contention

While the bill promotes a proactive stance on child safety, it may also encounter contention regarding implementation and compliance. Critics may argue that adding further requirements could impose additional burdens on school resources, especially for smaller and private institutions. There could be concerns about the financial implications of training mandates and how they will be funded. Additionally, the stipulation that those who fail to report abuse cannot serve in positions near children raises discussions about the fairness and transparency of reporting processes, as opposition groups may voice concerns over potential punitive measures.