Children and Youth, Commission on - As enacted, creates the Tennessee juvenile justice review commission to review an appropriate sampling of juvenile justice cases and any critical incidents involving juveniles in order to provide the general assembly with findings and legislative recommendations. - Amends TCA Title 4 and Title 37.

SB 444 creates the Tennessee Juvenile Justice Review Commission to examine juvenile justice cases and critical incidents involving juveniles in state custody. The commission will review an "appropriate sampling" of cases (including those with systemic concerns like out-of-state placements or extended detention) and critical incidents (such as escapes, self-harm, or staff abuse allegations). Composed of 11 members including department heads, judges, lawmakers, and experts, it must report findings and recommendations to the legislature annually starting in 2028. This bill establishes a formal process for reviewing the juvenile justice system’s operations without changing existing laws or policies.