WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 1015

Foster Care - As enacted, requires the department of children's services, to the extent not otherwise prohibited by state or federal law, to promulgate rules to implement certain rights for any foster child in the custody of the department or an agency that contracts with the department to place children in foster care. - Amends TCA Title 36; Title 37; Title 49 and Title 71.

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

Tennessee requires child services to establish foster child rights rules, strengthening protections for vulnerable children in state custody or contracted placement starting July 2025.

Pub. Ch. 387
#fostercare
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1015

Legislative bill overview

SB 1015 requires Tennessee's Department of Children's Services to establish rules protecting specific rights for foster children in state custody or placed by contracted agencies. The bill amends multiple sections of Tennessee Code to implement these protections, with an effective date of July 1, 2025.

Why is this important

Foster children are among the most vulnerable populations in the child welfare system, often experiencing instability and limited protections. Formalizing rights through administrative rules creates enforceable standards and accountability mechanisms that can improve placement stability, safety, and outcomes for thousands of Tennessee children currently in foster care.

Potential points of contention

  • Specificity of rights: The bill authorizes rules but doesn't enumerate specific rights in the legislation itself, leaving details to agency discretion—which could result in either comprehensive protections or minimal requirements depending on rule implementation
  • Resource implications: Creating new protections may require additional funding for training, monitoring, and compliance across the department and private contractors, raising costs during a period of tight budgets
  • Enforcement mechanisms: The bill doesn't specify enforcement procedures or penalties for violations, which could limit its effectiveness if violations occur without clear remedies for foster children

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

Sign in to ask a question.