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SB 2219

Court Rules - As introduced, deems that only certain people may access delinquency or unruly proceeding petitions and orders, including a judge, magistrate, officer, or professional staff of a court with juvenile jurisdiction; district attorneys general and assistant district attorneys; and public defenders and assistant public defenders. - Amends TCA Title 37, Chapter 1.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ferrell Haile

SB 2219 limits juvenile court delinquency records access to judges, attorneys, and court staff, restricting prior broader access to protect minors' privacy.

Transmitted to Governor for action.
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Bill Summary · SB 2219

Legislative bill overview

SB 2219 restricts access to juvenile delinquency and unruly conduct proceeding documents to a limited group: judges, magistrates, court officers, court staff, district attorneys, and public defenders. Currently, Tennessee law may allow broader access to these records. The bill amends the Tennessee Code to formalize these access restrictions.

Why is this important

Juvenile records carry lifelong consequences for young people seeking employment, education, and housing. This bill directly affects who can view sensitive information about minors involved in the justice system. The restriction could protect youth privacy but may also limit transparency and oversight depending on what access was previously available.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy vs. Transparency: Restricting access protects minors' privacy but may reduce public oversight of juvenile court proceedings and outcomes
  • Scope of "professional staff": The definition of who qualifies as "professional staff" with access is unclear and could be interpreted broadly or narrowly
  • Victim and family access: The bill doesn't explicitly address whether crime victims, affected families, or the youth themselves retain access to their own records

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

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