The Tennessee General Assembly has passed legislation changing the authorization process for Bible courses in public and charter schools across the state. House Bill 1197, sponsored by State Rep. Sabi “Doc” Kumar, R-Springfield, grants local school boards and charter school governing bodies the authority to approve Bible courses rather than the Tennessee Department of Education […]
The Tennessee General Assembly has passed legislation changing the authorization process for Bible courses in public and charter schools across the state.
House Bill 1197, sponsored by State Rep. Sabi “Doc” Kumar, R-Springfield, grants local school boards and charter school governing bodies the authority to approve Bible courses rather than the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE). These courses must adhere to state academic standards and comply with both the U.S. and Tennessee constitutions.
“This law ensures that local school boards have the authority to determine how Bible courses are taught in their schools, based on what works best for their students and communities,” Kumar said. “The goal is to provide an academic, nonreligious study of the Bible, which will allow students to explore its historical and cultural significance while preserving the integrity of our education system.”
Previously TDOE maintained a list of schools offering endorsed Bible courses, along with academic standards and guidelines for developing Bible course curricula. This requirement will remain in effect. Additionally each school district and charter school must post its Bible course materials online.
The legislation mandates that TDOE notify schools by July 1 each year about their eligibility to offer state-funded Bible courses. These courses will focus on the academic study of the Bible and must remain nonreligious in nature.
Bible courses approved before July 1 will not require recertification by local school boards.
Currently 32 counties in Tennessee offer elective Bible courses.
House Bill 1197 now heads to the governor’s desk for his signature.