TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Kate Prince on Sep 21, 2021

Parents from across the state spoke with legislators today about a bill that would require those reporting child abuse to identify themselves and allow those accused to petition the court for that information, the Tennessean reports. Sponsored by Rep. Clay Doggett, R-Pulaski, and Sen. Janice Bowling, R-Tullahoma, House Bill 908/Senate Bill 1014 requires those who report child abuse, neglect and sexual abuse to disclose their names and contact information to the Department of Children's Services (DCS). That information would be kept confidential at the person’s request, but the accused can petition the court for the identity of the person who reported them. A judge could then release that information if there is “good cause shown.” Advocates for the measure say it would prevent false claims of child abuse stemming from a grudge, but DCS cautioned lawmakers that abolishing the anonymous reporting system might deter honest callers who fear retaliation by the accused. The TBA also opposes the legislation.