Senate Bill 1850, also known as House Bill 2283, amends Tennessee Code Annotated regarding the placement of children in custody situations. The bill introduces new provisions in Sections 37-1-166 and 37-2-414, which state that when determining the best interest of a child for placement with a relative caregiver or in kinship foster care, the Department of Children’s Services cannot require the relative to provide a separate bedroom for the child. This requirement is waived unless there are specific safety or medical reasons that necessitate the child being placed alone.

The intent of this legislation is to facilitate the placement of children with relatives by removing the bedroom requirement, thereby potentially increasing the number of children who can be placed in stable and familiar environments. The bill emphasizes the importance of considering the best interests of the child while also recognizing the practical challenges that relatives may face in providing adequate housing. The act will take effect upon becoming law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 37-1-166, 37-2-414