Tennessee Bill Would Hold Parents Accountable for Children’s Crimes

Tennessee parents could soon face financial consequences for their children’s criminal behavior if a new bill is signed into law by Governor Bill Lee. The Parental Accountability Act would allow judges to fine parents up to $1,000 after their child’s second criminal offense.

The bill’s sponsor, Rep. John Gillespie, emphasized that the fine would be at the judge’s discretion and not mandatory. The money collected from the fines would go towards law enforcement to help cover the costs of juvenile crime.

The bill comes at a time when juvenile curfew arrests in Metro Nashville have increased in every police precinct compared to last year. Truancy arrests are also on the rise in most precincts. However, some Democratic lawmakers have raised concerns that the bill could unfairly impact single and foster parents.

Despite opposition, the bill passed in the House and Senate and is now awaiting Governor Lee’s decision. Supporters of the bill believe it will encourage parents to be more involved in their children’s lives and take responsibility for their actions.

Governor Lee has the option to sign the bill into law, let it become law without his signature, or veto it within 10 days. The decision now rests in his hands.