HB 1502

Present law grants certain powers and duties to the Tennessee corrections institute. This bill adds that the Tennessee corrections institute also has the power and duty to (i) e stablish certification requirements for corrections officers and (ii) i nspect and certify local correctional training academies associated with local jails, lock-ups, and workhouses. ACTION PLANS TO FIX DEFICIENCIES Present law prohibits a local , currently certified facility from being decertified if the local government has submitted a plan within 60 days of the initial annual inspection that is reasonably expected to eliminate fixed ratio deficiencies in that facility and cause that facility to remain certified. This bill removes this provision and, instead, provides that a local , currently certified facility must not be decertified if the local government has submitted a plan of action within 90 days of the initia l annual inspection that is reasonably expected to eliminate certain issues. Such issues are fixed ratio deficiencies, staffing emergencies, capital projects, or deficiencies that do not impact the life or safety of the inmates or employees in that facility and cause that facility to remain certified. A plan of action must not do any of the following :  Exceed five consecutive years without unanimous approval from the board of control of the Tennessee corrections institute ("board"") .  Exceed 12 months if the board determines that reasonable efforts by the local government could have resolved the deficiency .  Be approved for deficiencies that directly impact the safety and security of the facility or public welfare. This bill authorizes t he board to direct the executive director to consult with necessary state agencies to ensure the safety and security of the facility prior to approving an extension exceeding five years. BOARD POWERS Present law authorizes certain powers to the board. This bill adds the following powers:  The board is authorized to establish uniform standards for the training of corrections recruits and corrections officers, including requirements for corrections officer certification, continued certification, and revocation of certification.  The board is authorized to establish uniform standards for the certification of local correctional training academies for the purpose of training corrections recruits and corrections officers.  The board may issue, or revoke as required, special certifications to persons who, by reason of experience and completion of in-service training, advanced education, or specialized training, are especially qualified for particular aspects or classes relevant to the corrections profession. EMPLOYEE HANDGUN CARRY Present law authorizes certain persons to carry handguns at all times pursuant to a written directive by the executive supervisor of the organization to which the person is or was attached or employed, regardless of the person's regular duty hours or assignments . This bill adds to the list of authorized persons a ny director or full-time employee of the Tennessee corrections institute in the performance of the director or employee's duty ."