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HB 1357

Children - As enacted, enacts the "End Childhood Hunger Act." - Amends TCA Title 36 and Title 37.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Mary Littleton

Tennessee law enacts "End Childhood Hunger Act" modifying child welfare and family services codes to expand food access protections for minors.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 397
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Bill Summary · HB 1357

Legislative bill overview

HB 1357, the "End Childhood Hunger Act," amends Tennessee's child welfare and family services codes (TCA Titles 36 and 37) to address childhood food insecurity. The bill became law in May 2025, indicating it successfully passed both chambers and received gubernatorial approval.

Why is this important

Childhood hunger directly impacts educational performance, health outcomes, and long-term economic mobility. Tennessee's legislative action signals a policy commitment to addressing food access for minors, potentially affecting school nutrition programs, SNAP coordination, or child welfare service requirements.

Potential points of contention

  • Program funding mechanisms: Unclear whether new provisions require state budget allocations or mandate local district compliance without proportional funding
  • Implementation scope: Changes to Titles 36 (child welfare) and 37 (family services) could expand caseworker responsibilities or eligibility determinations without clarity on resources
  • Private vs. public sector roles: Potential disagreement over whether restaurants, retailers, or food banks should share responsibilities versus government-only provision

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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