Senator Joey Hensley Highlights Key Legislative Achievements from 2025 General Assembly

The 114th General Assembly has officially adjourned for 2025, and Senator Joey Hensley (R-Hohenwald) is highlighting a number of legislative measures passed this year that aim to improve the lives of Tennessee families, with a strong focus on child protection, adoption, and foster care reform.

One of the major achievements was the passage of the Savannah Grace Copeland Act, which significantly increases base funding for child advocacy centers across the state. The law provides $85,000 for each contracted forensic child interviewer and $127,855 for each center, with future increases tied to state revenue growth. The funding is contingent on approval through the general appropriations act.

In an effort to curb bullying, lawmakers passed a new law allowing courts to suspend a minor’s driving privileges for one year if they are found delinquent in serious harassment cases, including cyberbullying. Restricted licenses may be granted in limited circumstances for essential travel.

To strengthen family connections, the Department of Children’s Services (DCS) can now access closed adoption records to help place foster children with biological siblings who were previously adopted. The law enhances kinship placement options and prioritizes keeping siblings together when possible.

Adoption procedures were also streamlined through legislation allowing prospective parents to file a single petition for adopting multiple siblings, helping to reduce legal costs and simplify the process.

Children in foster care are also gaining additional protections. A newly enacted law outlines specific rights for children in DCS custody, including access to education, healthcare, a safe living environment, and the right to report violations without fear of retaliation. All DCS staff interacting with foster children will be required to receive training on these rights.

In support of young adults transitioning out of foster care, lawmakers voted to extend the age limit for voluntary extended care from 21 to 23. Eligible individuals can continue receiving support for education, employment, and medical needs, as long as they meet specific participation criteria. Additionally, the state has expanded its fee waiver program for driver’s licenses and state IDs to include youth up to age 23 who were in foster care, extended care, or juvenile justice programs.

Another new law lowers the age at which adopted individuals can access their own adoption records from 21 to 18, providing greater transparency and helping adoptees understand their background as they reach adulthood.

Senator Hensley described the session as a productive one that supports Tennessee families and children by promoting safety, accountability, and stability.

For more information or to contact Senator Hensley, constituents can reach him at:

Nashville Office:
425 Rep. John Lewis Way N., Suite 742
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: 615-741-3100 | Toll-Free: 1-800-449-8366 ext. 13100
Fax: 615-253-0231

District Office:
855 Summertown Highway
Hohenwald, TN 38462
Phone: 931-796-2018 | Cell: 931-212-8823
Email: sen.joey.hensley@capitol.tn.gov