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Bill

SB 2111

Children's Services, Dept. of - As introduced, changes the caseload requirement for case managers in the department from a monthly average of 20 active cases or 20 children monitored to a cap of no more than 12 active cases involving no more than 12 families or 20 children monitored; requires the department to resolve each active case within 12 months and a status review hearing to be held if the case is not resolved within 12 months. - Amends TCA Section 37-5-132.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Heidi Campbell

Reduces child services caseloads from 20 to 12 cases per manager and requires case resolution within 12 months with mandatory review hearings for unresolved cases.

Filed for introduction
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Bill Summary · SB 2111

Legislative bill overview

SB 2111 reduces the maximum caseload for child services case managers from 20 active cases to 12 active cases per manager, while capping families served at 12 and children monitored at 20. The bill also mandates case resolution within 12 months, with mandatory status review hearings if cases remain unresolved after that timeframe.

Why is this important

Child protective services caseloads directly affect the quality of oversight and intervention in child welfare cases. Reducing caseloads theoretically allows case managers more time per case, potentially improving outcomes for at-risk children. However, implementation requires significant budget increases and hiring, which may face fiscal constraints.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and implementation: Reducing caseloads by roughly 40% will require proportionally more staff and budget resources; the bill does not specify funding mechanisms or timelines for compliance
  • Case resolution deadline: The 12-month mandatory resolution window may be unrealistic for complex family situations involving substance abuse, mental health issues, or legal proceedings that extend beyond departmental control
  • Staffing capacity: Tennessee's ability to hire and train qualified case managers quickly enough to meet these new ratios is uncertain, potentially creating interim compliance issues

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

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