Tennessee House Bill HB0552

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/25
• Refer: 2/5/25
• Failed: 3/11/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 37; Title 49; Title 50 and Title 55, relative to the Family Right to Educational Emancipation (FREE) Act.

Impact

Specifically, HB0552 exempts children receiving home schooling under its guidelines from state-mandated educational laws, including compulsory attendance and truancy interventions. Furthermore, the bill delineates home school operated by families as a separate category, affirming that such educational paths do not need to conform to traditional public or private schooling regulations. This significant change in law aims to enhance the flexibility and freedom of home educators, aligning the educational framework more closely with parental values and choices.

Summary

House Bill 0552, known as the Family Right to Educational Emancipation (FREE) Act, seeks to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to education. This legislation recognizes the fundamental right of parents to govern their child's education, particularly focusing on the autonomy of home schooling. Under the provisions of this bill, parents and legal guardians will have the authority to decide on the curriculum and methods of instruction without interference from state or local governments, thus reinforcing educational independence and parental control.

Contention

The bill has sparked considerable debate. Proponents argue that it empowers families and supports the rights of parents in making educational decisions, aligning with a growing trend towards educational reform and parental rights advocacy. Conversely, critics raise concerns regarding oversight and educational standards, suggesting that a lack of regulatory frameworks could lead to disparities in educational quality among home-schooled students compared to those in public or private institutions. The contention hinges on balancing freedom of educational choice against the need for maintaining certain educational standards.

Further_info

HB0552 is positioned to impact broader educational policies and might trigger a reevaluation of home school regulations statewide. The implications of this act could lead to a larger discussion regarding the role of governmental authority in education and the autonomous rights of families in directing their children's learning paths. If approved, the act is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025.