SB2538

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 36 and Title 37, relative to children.

Introduced·2/2/26
Draft Text

SB2538 amends Tennessee law to enhance protections for children in legal proceedings and custody decisions.

SB2538 amends Tennessee Code to strengthen protections for children in legal proceedings and custody decisions. It mandates that expert testimony in child-impact cases must be based on clinical and professional expertise, not just forensic experience. Children are granted rights to legal representation, have their views considered, and express concerns about their safety without fear of retaliation. Courts must prioritize children's safety and well-being, considering all relevant evidence. Caregivers with histories of abuse or violence face restrictions in unsupervised contact with children.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Judiciary Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

0
1
R
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

History

Feb 5

Senate

Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Judiciary Committee

Feb 2

Senate

Filed for introduction

Feb 2

Senate

Introduced, Passed on First Consideration