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SB 871

General Assembly, Directed Studies - As enacted, directs TACIR to conduct a study and prepare a report on recommendations on the continuum of care in this state and how the continuum of care can be improved; requires the study and report to survey the continuum of care in other states and compare such care to the continuum of care in this state; requires TACIR to submit the report. - Amends TCA Title 4; Title 33; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Joey Hensley

Tennessee directs TACIR to study and report on improving the state's continuum of care system with comparisons to other states.

Pub. Ch. 445
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Bill Summary · SB 871

Legislative bill overview

SB 871 directs the Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations (TACIR) to conduct a comprehensive study on Tennessee's continuum of care system and produce recommendations for improvement. The study must include a survey of how other states manage their continuum of care and comparative analysis with Tennessee's current system.

Why is this important

A continuum of care—the range of services supporting individuals from prevention through treatment to recovery—affects vulnerable populations including those with mental health issues, substance use disorders, and aging adults. This study could identify gaps or inefficiencies in Tennessee's service delivery and inform future policy decisions on healthcare and social services funding and coordination.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope ambiguity: "Continuum of care" is not universally defined and could encompass mental health, substance abuse, aging services, or all three, potentially leading to an unfocused study
  • Resource allocation: The bill mandates a study without explicit appropriations, raising questions about funding and whether TACIR has capacity to conduct a meaningful comparative analysis
  • Implementation uncertainty: The bill requires recommendations but doesn't mandate legislative action on findings, potentially limiting real-world impact if recommendations are shelved

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

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