Staff Reports
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, a Republican, received a new bill this week that aims to hold parents accountable if their children commit multiple crimes. The bill proposes a $1,000 fine for parents, in addition to any court-ordered damages, following their child’s second offense. The Parental Accountability bill, which is expected to generate $122,000 in state revenue annually, was met with opposition from five Democratic senators and 22 Democratic representatives, as well as two Republican representatives.
This bill represents a significant update to existing legislation, under which parents were fined at least $250 for a misdemeanor committed by their child, and at least $500 for a felony. The maximum fine would now be $1,000, and parents and legal guardians can also choose to perform community service instead of paying the fine.
Parents of kids who commit crimes in Tennessee will face fines up to $1,000 for each offense after the first one, under a bill that is headed to Gov. Bill Lee for his signature into law.https://t.co/J0x7HhfTyQ
— WREG News Channel 3 (@3onyourside) April 24, 2024
Shelby County Sheriff Floyd Bonner Jr. shared concerns about overcrowding in his juvenile detention facility, which currently detains 113 suspects with a capacity for only 146. Given the significant strain on resources, the sheriff expressed support for the new bill, stating that the possibility of having to perform community service as a result of their child’s behavior may encourage parents to be more attentive.
This development follows the controversial passage of a separate bill allowing teachers to carry firearms, which led to protests at the state House. These bills reflect the ongoing efforts to address issues related to juvenile crime and school safety in Tennessee.
