Tennessee Senate Bill SB0239

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/25
• Engrossed: 3/17/25
• Enrolled: 4/23/25
• Passed: 5/9/25
• Chaptered: 5/15/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 37; Title 39 and Title 40, relative to juveniles.

Impact

If enacted, SB 239 would facilitate a systematic evaluation of juvenile detention and treatment resources, aiming to ensure that juveniles are housed and treated appropriately prior to and after adjudicatory hearings. The bill underscores the importance of the availability of local facilities and services that cater to juveniles, indicating that current shortages or inadequacies in these resources may be detrimental to the rehabilitation process. The expected timeline for TACIR to report its findings and suggestions back to the General Assembly is set for January 31, 2026.

Summary

Senate Bill 239 aims to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated regarding juveniles. The primary focus of this legislation is to mandate a comprehensive study by the Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations (TACIR). This study will evaluate the current state and availability of local juvenile detention centers, as well as treatment facilities for juveniles both pre- and post-adjudication. The findings of this study are intended to determine whether there is a need for additional resources in these areas to better serve juvenile offenders in Tennessee.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB 239 appears to be constructive. Supporters of the bill value the proactive approach of gathering data and insights into juvenile treatment and detention facilities, seeing it as a step towards enhancing the juvenile justice system within the state. Advocacy for juvenile rehabilitation over punishment is prevalent among proponents, as the study aims to highlight necessary improvements in juvenile care and oversight.

Contention

While the legislation's primary focus seems to be on analysis and study, potential points of contention could arise around the implementation of new facilities or changes to existing structures based on the findings. Some stakeholders may argue about the allocation of state resources to improve juvenile services or about concerns related to the oversight and management of such facilities. Additionally, debates may emerge about the balance between rehabilitation and punitive measures in the juvenile justice system, depending on the study's conclusions and suggested legislative changes.