Tennessee § 33-10-403 - Legislative policy and findings.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 33-10-403 — Legislative policy and findings., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 33-10-403. Legislative policy and findings.
It is the policy of this state that intoxicated persons should be afforded a continuum of treatment so they might lead normal lives as productive members of society. The general assembly finds that alcoholism and intoxication are matters of statewide concern. The general assembly recognizes the character and pervasiveness of alcohol abuse and alcoholism and that public intoxication and alcoholism are health problems that should be handled by public health rather than criminal procedures, when proper facilities, procedures and services as defined and set forth in this part are available. The general assembly finds that this health problem has been seriously neglected and that the costs and the waste of human resources caused by alcohol abuse and alcoholism are massive, tragic and no longer acceptable. The general assembly finds that the best interests of this state demand a locally-oriented attack on the massive alcohol abuse and alcoholism problem. The general assembly finds that the handling of intoxicated persons as criminals contributes to jail overcrowding and the consumption of resources needed for the handling of more serious and violent matters. The general assembly finds that there is a need for alternative programs in this state for the detention and treatment of persons intoxicated or incapacitated by alcohol. Acts 1990, ch. 639, § 2; 1993, ch. 234, § 8; T.C.A., § 33-8-503 ; Acts 2009, ch. 186, § 28; T.C.A. § 68-24-503 Code Commission Notes. Acts 2009, ch. 186, § 28 purported to transfer this section from § 68-24-503 to § 33-10-503 ; however, § 68-24-503 was transferred to § 33-10-403 by the code commission.
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 33-10-403
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 33-10-403 cover?
Section 33-10-403 ("Legislative policy and findings.") is part of the Tennessee Code Annotated, the codified statutory law of Tennessee. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Tennessee § 33-10-403?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 33-10-403" (Tennessee). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Tennessee law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Tennessee official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Tennessee attorney.
How does Tennessee § 33-10-403 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Tennessee can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Tennessee.