HB1359

HB1359: Requiring the Tennessee Department to promulgate rules to implement a delineated list of rights that foster children are entitled to, including the right: “(1) To go to school and receive an education that fits the child’s age and individual needs; (2) To benefit from appropriate care and treatment in the least restrictive setting possible; (3) To live in a safe, health environment free from abuse, neglect, and pests; (4) To report any violation of personal rights specified in this section without fear of punishment, interference, coercion, or retaliation; (5) To receive medical, dental, vision, and mental health services as recommended by an appropriate professional, and to be informed about diagnoses and treatment options as is developmentally appropriate; and (6) To be free from punishment in the form of restrictions on or supervision of contact with any legal representative, including any appointed guardian ad litem, attorney ad litem, or appointed counsel with whom the foster child as a right to confidential communication.” The bill also requires the department to “consult[ ] with stakeholders within the foster care system” in order to “develop materials to express the rights specified in this section and any other rights the department finds appropriate to children in foster care.”