Loading chat...

TN HB2078

Bill

Status

Introduced

1/23/2026

Primary Sponsor

Andrew Farmer

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

114th General Assembly

AI Summary

  • Bond conditions affecting parental contact, custody, or visitation must receive an expedited hearing within 15 calendar days of being imposed; failure to hold the hearing automatically voids the condition.

  • Courts cannot restrict a defendant's contact with minor children who are not victims of the charged crime unless the government proves by clear and convincing evidence that a present threat of harm exists and less restrictive alternatives are insufficient.

  • Establishes a legal presumption that parental contact with a child is in the best interests of the child.

  • Requires courts to make specific factual findings before imposing or extending pre-conviction bond conditions that limit parental rights.

  • Takes effect immediately upon becoming law.

Legislative Description

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 36, Chapter 8 and Title 40, Chapter 11, relative to expedited hearing procedures.

Courts

Last Action

Placed on cal. Judiciary Committee for 3/18/2026

3/11/2026

Committee Referrals

Judiciary2/17/2026
Children & Families Subcommittee2/11/2026
Judiciary2/4/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available