TN HB0038

Courts may order restitution against parents, legal custodians, or guardians for law enforcement expenses when a child commits a second delinquent act; restitution becomes mandatory for a third or subsequent offense

Minimum restitution amounts set at $250 for acts that would be misdemeanors if committed by an adult, and $500 for acts that would be felonies

Maximum restitution capped at $1,000 regardless of offense type

Indigent parents or guardians must perform community service in lieu of monetary restitution if the court waives payment

Effective July 1, 2025