Bill > SB0811

This bill establishes the "Teen Social Media and Internet Safety Act," which requires the Tennessee Department of Education to develop comprehensive guidance for social media and internet safety education for students in grades 6-12. By January 1, 2026, the department must create instructional materials covering topics such as time management, mental health impacts, information distribution, behavioral manipulation, online safety, personal security, cyberbullying prevention, and artificial intelligence awareness. Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools must implement this curriculum, with parents having the option to partially or fully excuse their children from instruction without academic penalty. Additionally, the bill mandates that schools prohibit student access to social media platforms using school internet, except for specific educational purposes, and requires schools to implement internet content filters that protect student privacy, limit age-inappropriate content, and secure electronic communication. The legislation aims to educate students about potential online risks and promote responsible digital citizenship while giving parents some discretion in their children's internet safety education.

Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0811&ga=114