Children - As introduced, specifies that "neglect" does not include permitting a child, whose basic needs are met and who is of sufficient age and maturity to avoid harm or unreasonable risk of harm, to engage in independent activities, including traveling to and from school by walking, running, or bicycling; traveling to and from commercial or recreational facilities; playing outdoors; remaining at home unattended for a reasonable period of time; and other similar independent activity. - Amends TCA Title 36; Title 37 and Title 39.

HB 1170 amends Tennessee law to clarify that "neglect" does not include permitting a child (whose basic needs are met and who is mature enough to avoid harm) to engage in specific independent activities. It explicitly exempts walking or biking to school, playing outdoors, visiting nearby facilities, and brief unattended home time from being considered neglect under Tennessee Code Sections 37-1-102 and 39-15-401. The bill directly affects parents, caregivers, and child welfare agencies by defining clear boundaries for what constitutes neglect. This change aims to prevent unnecessary investigations or interventions for common, age-appropriate child activities.