Senate Bill 254, sponsored by Gardenhire, amends Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Section 40-36-105(2). The bill deletes the existing subdivision and replaces it with new language that mandates the conduct of statewide public education regarding the purposes and goals of the chapter. Additionally, it requires the submission of an annual report by February 1 to specific legislative committees, including the house committee on criminal justice, the senate judiciary committee, and the fiscal review committee. This report will detail the effectiveness of diverting offenders from state correctional institutions.

The bill aims to enhance public awareness and oversight of diversion programs within the criminal justice system in Tennessee. By instituting a requirement for annual reporting, the legislation seeks to ensure accountability and provide lawmakers with the necessary information to assess the impact of these diversion efforts on the state's correctional system. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law, emphasizing the urgency of its implementation for public welfare.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40-36-105(2), 40-36-105