Bill > HB1270

This bill establishes protections for freedom of speech related to names and pronouns in Tennessee's public schools, higher education institutions, and state government workplaces. The legislation allows students, teachers, employees, and contractors to use an individual's legal name or sex-consistent pronouns without facing disciplinary action, even if those differ from a person's preferred name or pronouns. Specifically, the bill prohibits requiring individuals to use preferred names or pronouns that do not match a person's legal name or biological sex, and protects them from civil liability for using legal names or sex-consistent pronouns. For unemancipated minors in schools, the bill mandates that teachers must obtain parental written consent before using a name or pronoun different from the student's legal name and sex. The legislation also provides a mechanism for filing complaints and potential legal action if these provisions are violated, allowing individuals or their parents to seek injunctive relief, monetary damages, and attorney fees. Each covered institution (public schools, higher education institutions, and state agencies) must annually notify employees and students about these pronoun and name usage protections, emphasizing the bill's goal of preserving free speech rights while preventing compelled speech.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1270&ga=114