Bill > SB0699

This bill establishes the "Student Comfort through Alternative Restorative Environments (CARE) Act", which requires local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools to provide support for students who have experienced mass violence at their school. Specifically, the bill mandates that schools must allow students to voluntarily participate in either a virtual education program or remote instruction for at least 31 calendar days following an act of mass violence, defined as an incident resulting in serious bodily injury or death of two or more persons. The participation is entirely voluntary and can be requested by the student (if 18 or older) or their parent/guardian. Students who choose this option cannot be academically penalized and will remain eligible for all counseling and mental health resources. The LEA or school must notify the state Department of Education about students participating in these alternative learning arrangements and report the duration of their participation. The bill will take effect for the 2025-2026 school year and subsequent years, providing a structured approach to supporting students in the aftermath of traumatic school-based violent events.

Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0699&ga=114