Tennessee Senate Bill SB0478

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 38 and Section 49-7-118, relative to commissioned police officers on college and university campuses.

Impact

The implementation of SB0478 is projected to significantly affect the operational dynamics of campus safety and police departments. By ensuring that police officers are financially incentivized through salary supplements, the bill seeks to enhance the appeal of law enforcement positions on campuses, potentially improving recruitment and retention rates among these officers. This move may ensure a more consistent presence of trained personnel focused on the safety and well-being of students and staff on campus.

Summary

Senate Bill 478 (SB0478) proposes amendments to the Tennessee Code Annotated regarding commissioned police officers on college and university campuses. The bill mandates that campus police and public safety officers who complete their annual in-service training must receive cash salary supplements, similar to those given to regular police officers. This provision aims to enhance the financial benefits of officers serving in the educational environment, clearly indicating an effort to bolster campus safety measures in relation to law enforcement personnel. The bill specifies that the funds for these salary supplements shall be made available to the respective institutions, schools, or boards for payment to the officers.

Contention

Moreover, the bill includes specific provisions for campus police officers who are veterans and may have had their training affected due to military service. This particular aspect highlights the bill’s intent to accommodate individuals who have served in the armed forces, thereby acknowledging their sacrifices and ensuring they receive the same benefits as other officers. While this move is primarily supportive, there may be discussions around budget allocations for these salary supplements and how different institutions will manage this additional financial responsibility when the bill takes effect on July 1, 2025.