Bill > HB0025

This bill introduces several new provisions related to interscholastic athletics in Tennessee, focusing on transparency, student transfer rights, and oversight of athletic associations. Specifically, the bill prohibits public schools from using public funds to join or maintain membership in an athletic association that restricts student transfers between schools (with the exception of students completing their highest grade level). The bill also mandates that such athletic associations must comply with open meetings laws, though they can hold closed meetings when discussing confidential student information protected by privacy laws like FERPA. Additionally, the legislation requires schools to obtain written consent before notifying an athletic association about a foster care student's placement, and mandates that these associations undergo an annual audit by the state comptroller, which can be prepared by a certified public accountant or the state audit department. Local educational agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools must submit documentation of their compliance with these provisions annually, and the state department of education must report on this compliance to legislative education committees. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, and simultaneously repeals several existing sections of Tennessee Code related to educational athletics.

Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0025&ga=114