Children's Services, Dept. of - As introduced, requires the department to record, by audio recording or video recording, all interviews of children conducted by department employees as part of the department's investigation of claims of abuse or dependency and neglect. - Amends TCA Title 10, Chapter 7, Part 5; Title 24; Title 37 and Title 38.

SB 2402 requires Tennessee's Department of Children's Services to record all interviews with children during abuse, dependency, or neglect investigations using audio or video. This applies directly to department employees conducting these interviews and includes exceptions for technical issues or unforeseen circumstances that prevent recording. The bill clarifies that failing to record an interview does not affect the use of child statements or related evidence in court, and all recordings must remain confidential per existing law. The law would take effect July 1, 2026.