Bill > SB0936

This bill declares that the policy of Tennessee is that there are only two sexes, male and female, defined by immutable characteristics of a person's reproductive system, determined by anatomy and genetics at birth. It mandates that by January 1, 2027, all local and state governmental entities must revise their existing rules, policies, and procedures to reflect this definition of sex and prohibit the adoption of any new ones that do not adhere to it. The bill outlines a process for citizens to file complaints against local entities in chancery court, with potential consequences including court orders and ineligibility for state grants, and against state entities with the Comptroller of the Treasury, which can lead to investigations, notices of noncompliance, and financial penalties such as withholding state general fund revenue for institutions of higher education. Importantly, neither local nor state entities are considered noncompliant solely for accepting valid birth certificates or other lawfully issued identification, and state entities are not required to violate federal law.