Tennessee Senate Bill SB1470

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/30/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 9; Title 29; Title 36 and Title 37, relative to liability of certain entities.

Impact

If enacted, SB1470 would mean that nonprofit organizations involved in child welfare would not be held liable for damages caused by their employees or volunteers, as long as they have conducted appropriate background checks and training. This could significantly reduce financial risks for these organizations, fostering a more favorable operational environment. However, the bill also specifies that these organizations can still be held liable if they fail to comply with established safety and training protocols or if their negligence contributed to the injuries or damages alleged.

Summary

Senate Bill 1470 seeks to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Titles 9, 29, 36, and 37, to outline the liability of nonprofit organizations that provide services through contracts with the department of children's services. The bill aims to establish a framework that limits the liability of these entities in relation to actions or omissions by their employees or volunteers, provided that certain conditions regarding background checks and training are met. This proposed change is highlighted as a significant shift in how nonprofit organizations could be held accountable for their staff's actions and omissions in child welfare services.

Sentiment

The sentiment toward SB1470 has been mixed, reflecting both support from organizations concerned about liability and opposition from those worried about potential negative impacts on child welfare. Proponents argue that the bill would encourage more organizations to engage without fear of crippling lawsuits, potentially expanding the availability of child welfare services. Conversely, critics express concern that too much protection from liability may lead to reduced accountability, thus putting vulnerable children at greater risk.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1470 include debates over the balance between protecting nonprofit organizations and ensuring accountability for the services they provide. Critics fear that easing liability could result in inadequate oversight and diminished safety standards within child welfare systems. Advocates, however, argue that the bill simply clarifies and updates the existing liability framework to facilitate better service provision without compromising safety, as long as the nonprofits adhere to required protocols.