Tennessee House Bill HB0221

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/23
• Refer: 1/21/23
• Refer: 3/6/23
• Engrossed: 3/14/23
• Enrolled: 3/17/23
• Passed: 4/6/23
• Chaptered: 4/18/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 29 and Title 49, Chapter 6, Part 22, relative to the state textbook and instructional materials quality commission.

Impact

The amendments proposed in HB 221 would specifically eliminate a subdivision from the existing regulations regarding the quality commission and introduce updated responsibilities. This restructuring is intended to ensure that the quality commission can operate more effectively, potentially leading to improved educational outcomes and more relevant instructional materials for students. The implementation of this bill indicates a legislative commitment to enhancing educational resources, which may also influence funding and resource allocation within public schools.

Summary

House Bill 221 amends the Tennessee Code Annotated to modify the structure and functions of the state textbook and instructional materials quality commission. The significance of this bill lies in its potential to streamline the processes surrounding the evaluation and approval of instructional materials used within the state's educational system. By making these amendments, the bill aims to enhance the quality and accessibility of educational materials available to students and teachers across Tennessee.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 221 appears to be positive, reflecting a collective belief in the importance of enhancing educational materials. Lawmakers supported the bill with a unanimous vote of 33-0 in favor of its adoption during the floor vote, suggesting a strong bipartisan agreement on the need for reform in this area. The general consensus among proponents is that a more effective quality commission will elevate educational standards in Tennessee.

Contention

While there appear to be no significant points of contention mentioned in the discussions or voting history surrounding HB 221, the removal of existing provisions can sometimes cause concern among stakeholders who may have vested interests in educational content and standards. Nonetheless, the lack of opposition in the vote suggests that there may have been a broad agreement on the necessity for these changes, indicating a smooth legislative process for this bill.