Bill > HB0407

This bill establishes a new grant program administered by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) to provide financial incentives to full-time undergraduate students at public colleges in Tennessee who voluntarily get tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Under the program, eligible students can receive a $250 grant once per academic year for up to four years, with the funds strictly limited to use for tuition, mandatory fees, textbooks, and course materials. THEC will develop an application process that protects student privacy under HIPAA and other confidentiality laws, requiring students to provide proof of STD testing to their institution. The grant program will be funded through a separate student STD testing grant fund, which can receive state appropriations, investments, gifts, and donations. Public institutions of higher education will be responsible for accepting applications, verifying student eligibility, and distributing the grants. The bill specifies that no funds can be spent until specifically appropriated, and while the rulemaking provisions take effect immediately, the substantive grant program will begin in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0407&ga=114