Senate Bill 444 establishes the "Tennessee Juvenile Justice Review Commission" within the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically under Title 37, Chapter 3. The commission is responsible for reviewing juvenile justice cases and critical incidents involving juveniles in the custody of the Department of Children's Services, with the goal of providing findings and legislative recommendations to the General Assembly. The commission will include members such as state commissioners, legislative representatives, juvenile court judges, and experts in child development and services for individuals with disabilities. It is required to submit progress reports by January 1, 2027, and detailed annual findings and recommendations thereafter.

The bill enhances the operational framework of the commission by allowing it to hire additional staff or consultants as needed, contingent on available funds. It grants immunity from civil and criminal liability to individuals acting in good faith in compliance with the commission's directives and clarifies that the commission's activities will not interfere with other legal investigations. Additionally, the bill mandates the adoption of a conflict of interest policy for commission members and formally recognizes the commission within the Tennessee Code Annotated by adding it as a new subdivision under Section 4-29-248(a). The act is set to take effect immediately upon becoming law, highlighting its significance for public welfare.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4-29-248(a), 4-29-248