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HB 1029

Correction, Dept. of - As introduced, adds the availability of services relating to housing as an issue that must be addressed in the orientation that the department is required to conduct before an inmate is released from confinement. - Amends TCA Title 39 and Title 40.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Vincent Dixie

Tennessee requires prison orientation to include housing services information before inmate release, addressing reentry barriers to reduce recidivism and homelessness.

P2C, caption bill, held on desk - pending amdt.
#correction #dept.of
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Bill Summary · HB 1029

Legislative bill overview

HB 1029 requires Tennessee's Department of Correction to include housing services information in the mandatory pre-release orientation program for inmates. The bill amends the state's corrections statutes to formalize housing assistance as a required topic covered before incarceration ends.

Why is this important

Housing instability is a significant barrier to successful reentry and a major predictor of recidivism. By ensuring all released inmates receive information about available housing resources and services during orientation, the bill aims to reduce homelessness among formerly incarcerated individuals and improve public safety outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Resource allocation: The bill doesn't specify funding mechanisms or which housing services must be covered, raising questions about implementation costs and departmental capacity
  • Scope and sufficiency: Critics may argue that orientation information alone is insufficient without actual housing placement assistance or funding guarantees
  • Burden on DOC: The Department of Correction may face operational challenges adding another mandatory component to release procedures without additional resources

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

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