SUMMARY: In response to serious accusations of sexual harassment and discrimination, the Metro Nashville Police Department has updated its sexual misconduct policy to establish a zero tolerance stance. The revised 21-page policy aims to clarify the department’s position on harassment and misconduct, a change welcomed by advocates like Silent No Longer. This action follows months of pressure from Metro council members and community organizations, addressing longstanding concerns dating back to a 2020 proposal outlining specific behaviors and reporting procedures. Officials, including Metro Police Chief John Drake, express commitment to continuously improving their policies while advocates call for further changes, such as independent oversight for investigations.

After serious accusations of sexual harassment and discrimination within the MNPD, the department added clarifying language surrounding the policy and specified it is a zero-tolerance environment for sexual harassment and discrimination.

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SUMMARY: A proposed bill in the state legislature aims to address the caregiving shortage by allowing certain family members to be paid for caring for loved ones with disabilities. Maria Guzman reports on a mother, Sansy Bush, who quit her nursing job to provide full-time care for her son, Cameron, a 12-year-old with a rare genetic disorder and multiple challenges, requiring constant attention. The Freedom for Family Care Act is designed to offer financial relief to families like theirs, many of whom must reduce their work hours or leave jobs entirely to care for loved ones. The bill is currently progressing through the legislative process.

A woman who left her nursing job to care for a family member said she’s hopeful a bill letting family caregivers be paid through TennCare passes.

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SUMMARY: A new lawsuit settlement will enhance accessibility for deaf incarcerated individuals in Tennessee’s Department of Correction (TDOC). Following a 2020 suit by Disability Rights Tennessee and three deaf inmates, the TDOC agreed to provide videophones, sign language interpreters, and necessary accommodations, ensuring deaf individuals can participate in essential programming. The settlement addresses violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act, with measures including the provision of interpreters for medical appointments and educational programming. It also mandates screening for deaf inmates, ensuring they receive appropriate support for rehabilitation and reentry into society, thus promoting equal opportunities and communication access.

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