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SB 108

Correction, Dept. of - As introduced, reduces from 10 to five business days after a death, the time within which the commissioner must report the death of a person in custody to members of the general assembly representing the legislative districts where the deceased person resided; requires that the information contained in the report include the name of the department facility where the death occurred. - Amends TCA Title 4.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ed Jackson

SB 108 cuts in-custody death reporting deadline from 10 to 5 business days and requires facility identification in notifications to legislators.

Sponsor(s) Added.
#correction #dept.of
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Bill Summary · SB 108

Legislative bill overview

SB 108 accelerates the Department of Correction's reporting timeline for in-custody deaths from 10 to 5 business days and requires reports to include the specific facility where the death occurred. The bill mandates notification to state legislators representing the deceased person's home district.

Why is this important

Deaths in custody raise significant public accountability and transparency concerns. Faster reporting and facility-specific information allow legislators and constituents to respond more quickly to potential safety issues, investigate patterns, and hold the corrections system accountable. This affects the Department of Correction's operational procedures and legislative oversight mechanisms.

Potential points of contention

  • Operational feasibility: Whether 5 business days provides adequate time for investigations, medical examinations, and family notifications before public disclosure
  • Information completeness vs. accuracy: Pressure to report quickly may conflict with thorough incident investigation and accurate cause-of-death determination
  • Privacy and family notification: Potential tension between legislative notification timelines and allowing families first notification of their relative's death

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

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