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SB 1804

State Inmates - As introduced, requires the department of correction to provide notification of an inmate's furlough to the police chief of the city in which the inmate resides. - Amends TCA Title 40 and Title 41.

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

Requires Tennessee corrections officials to notify local police chiefs before releasing inmates on furlough to enhance law enforcement awareness and community safety monitoring.

Companion House Bill substituted
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Bill Summary · SB 1804

Legislative bill overview

SB 1804 requires Tennessee's Department of Correction to notify local police chiefs whenever an inmate is granted a furlough (temporary release from custody). The bill amends state corrections law to establish this notification requirement as standard procedure.

Why is this important

Furloughs allow incarcerated individuals temporary release for purposes like family visits, medical treatment, or rehabilitation programming. Police chiefs argue that advance notification enables them to enhance community safety monitoring and allows law enforcement to take appropriate precautions. Conversely, this impacts inmate reintegration efforts and raises questions about privacy and the purpose of furlough programs.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety vs. rehabilitation goals: Supporters argue notification helps protect communities; critics contend it may stigmatize inmates and undermine furlough programs designed to facilitate successful reentry
  • Law enforcement coordination: Questions exist about whether notification actually improves safety outcomes or creates unnecessary bureaucratic burden on corrections and police departments
  • Inmate privacy and reintegration: Advance notification to police could affect where inmates feel safe during furlough and may complicate family visits or personal matters, potentially hindering rehabilitation

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

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