Tennessee House Bill HJR0749

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/26
• Refer: 1/14/26

Caption

A RESOLUTION to recognize and address the importance of substance abuse prevention education.

Impact

The resolution advocates for implementing a long-term prevention education program that begins in kindergarten and extends through high school. It argues that such educational programs are vital for equipping students with the necessary skills to make healthy choices. The proposed measures include evidence-based drug prevention and life skills training, social-emotional learning, and mental health support embedded in the school curriculum. The resolution claims that this educational strategy could significantly reduce the economic burden on the state by saving dollars in healthcare and criminal justice costs.

Summary

HJR0749 is a resolution introduced in the Tennessee General Assembly to acknowledge and address the growing crisis of substance abuse and mental health disorders in the state. The resolution specifically highlights alarming statistics from the Tennessee Together Student Survey, which indicate significant substance misuse among students, including prescription drugs and vaping. Moreover, it notes that a considerable number of Tennesseans are classified as needing treatment but are not receiving it, particularly highlighting the urgent need for effective prevention initiatives.

Contention

While HJR0749 emphasizes the importance of prevention education, it may also encounter points of contention regarding funding and implementation. Questions could arise about how these programs will be financed, especially in a state where budget constraints are a regular topic of debate. Additionally, there may be discussions about the effectiveness of proposed methodologies and whether they accurately meet the diverse needs of Tennessee's student population. The resolution could spark broader conversations about mental health resources available to schools and the systematic integration of these services.