Bill > SB1774

This bill establishes new provisions and clarifies existing ones regarding harassment, bullying, and cyberbullying within Tennessee schools, specifically targeting the conduct of school employees. It amends Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) to define "bullying" as an act by a school employee or student that significantly disrupts a victim's education, and if occurring on school grounds or during school activities, it must involve physical harm, fear of harm, or property damage; if off-campus, it must be directed at a victim and substantially disrupt the educational environment. The bill also defines "school employee" to include those in private schools, Local Education Agencies (LEAs), and public charter schools, and clarifies that a "victim" is a student when the perpetrator is a school employee. Crucially, it amends existing law to state that a teacher or school employee found to have committed harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyberbullying can be dismissed or suspended, and such actions are now grounds for disciplinary action under school district policies. These changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

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https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB1774&ga=114