Bill > HB0454

This bill increases the amount that each Local Educational Agency (LEA) in Tennessee is required to pay each teacher in kindergarten through grade 12 for the purchase of instructional supplies from $200 to $600 for the 2023-2024 school year. The funds must be used by the teachers for instructional supplies and cannot be used for basic building needs such as HVAC, carpets, furniture, or items for the teachers' lounge. Any unspent funds at the end of the school year must be pooled at the school level and used for the purchase of items of equipment for the benefit of all teachers. The bill also specifies that it is not an appropriation of funds, and funds must not be obligated or expended unless specifically appropriated by the general appropriations act. The bill takes effect on July 1, 2023.