Tennessee House Bill HB2503

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24
• Refer: 2/1/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 8 and Title 36, relative to child custody.

Impact

One of the key provisions of HB2503 mandates that each sheriff must designate at least one parking lot at their office as a neutral safe exchange location. The legislation requires these locations to be accessible at all times and equipped with adequate lighting and video surveillance. This change is intended to reduce potential conflicts that could arise during exchanges and increase the security for both parents and children involved in custody arrangements.

Summary

House Bill 2503 proposes amendments to the Tennessee Code Annotated, focusing on child custody arrangements. The bill stipulates that in cases where custody is shared, parents must utilize a designated location for exchanging the child unless an alternative agreement is made. This aims to enhance safety and structure when parents are separated and need to facilitate child custody transitions.

Contention

While the overarching goal of the bill is to improve child safety during custody exchanges, there may be points of contention regarding logistical considerations and resource allocation. Concerns could arise from sheriffs' offices about the ability to maintain the required surveillance and lighting conditions at all designated locations. Additionally, the liability protections provided to sheriffs and staff involved in these exchanges may raise questions about accountability in cases where incidents occur at these locations.