Tennessee Senate Bill SB1332

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/25
• Engrossed: 4/7/25
• Enrolled: 4/22/25
• Passed: 5/5/25
• Chaptered: 5/13/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, Chapter 2; Title 49, Chapter 5 and Title 49, Chapter 6, relative to released time courses.

Impact

If enacted, SB1332 will have significant implications for education policy in Tennessee, specifically related to the safety and oversight of educators involved in released time programs. The law seeks to ensure that individuals who engage with students in these settings meet specific safety standards, which advocates argue is essential for protecting vulnerable populations. The requirement for regular background checks could also promote greater accountability among educators within independent entities offering released time courses.

Summary

Senate Bill 1332 aims to amend certain provisions within the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning released time courses. This legislation introduces new requirements for independent entities conducting released time courses, particularly focusing on background checks for instructors and others in proximity to students. The bill mandates that all instructors must undergo a criminal history background check prior to the 2025-2026 school year and every five years thereafter. Independent entities must also certify their compliance with these requirements to local education authorities (LEA).

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB1332 appears to be largely positive, particularly among proponents who value the emphasis on student safety and accountability. Many supporters, including educators and parent groups, view this legislation as a necessary step to safeguard students participating in released time courses. However, there may also be some contention regarding the administrative burden that these requirements could impose on independent entities and the potential for limiting access to these courses if compliance becomes too rigorous.

Contention

Notably, while the bill has garnered support for its safety measures, it could face pushback regarding the practical implications of implementing extensive background checks. Critics might argue that the financial and logistical challenges posed by these requirements could deter independent entities from providing released time courses altogether. This raises questions about the balance between ensuring student safety and maintaining access to educational opportunities.