House Bill 1502, also known as Senate Bill 1589, aims to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to the Tennessee corrections institute. The bill introduces new provisions that establish certification requirements for corrections officers and mandates the inspection and certification of local correctional training academies associated with local jails, lock-ups, and workhouses. Additionally, it modifies existing regulations regarding the decertification of local facilities, allowing them to maintain certification if they submit a reasonable plan of action to address deficiencies within a specified timeframe.

The bill also empowers the board to set uniform training standards for corrections recruits and officers, including certification and revocation processes. It allows for the issuance of special certifications for individuals with advanced qualifications in specific areas of the corrections profession. Furthermore, it expands the definition of individuals protected under certain legal provisions to include directors and full-time employees of the Tennessee corrections institute while performing their duties. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 41-4-140(a), 41-4-140, 41-7-106, 39-17-1315(a)(1)(A), 39-17-1315