Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

Tennessee Senate Bill SB1788

Introduced
1/22/24  

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 36; Title 37; Title 39; Title 41 and Title 49, relative to corporal punishment.

Impact

With the implementation of SB1788, educational institutions in Tennessee will no longer have the legal authority to permit corporal punishment, aligning the state's policies with a growing national movement against such practices in schools. This change is expected to impact school discipline protocols, shifting the focus toward alternative disciplinary approaches that do not involve physical punishment. The bill outlines that the prohibition applies not only to direct employees of public schools but also to independent contractors providing services to those schools.

Summary

Senate Bill 1788 aims to amend several sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically targeting regulations surrounding corporal punishment in schools. The bill explicitly prohibits teachers, school principals, and other school personnel from administering corporal punishment against students. This represents a significant shift in educational policy, as it seeks to eliminate physical discipline as a method of behavior management in public schools in Tennessee.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB1788 has largely been supportive among child advocacy groups and educational reformers who argue that corporal punishment is outdated and harmful to students' physical and emotional well-being. Many proponents believe that the elimination of such practices can lead to healthier school environments and promote better student outcomes. Opponents, however, may argue that this bill could detract from teachers' authority and limit their ability to manage student behavior effectively.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1788 include arguments regarding the appropriateness of corporal punishment in educational settings. While proponents argue for the necessity of non-violent approaches to discipline, opponents may raise concerns about the impact this prohibition may have on maintaining order and respect within classrooms. Additionally, the bill has generated discussions about the need for teachers to have effective tools for managing disruptive behavior without resorting to physical discipline.

Companion Bills

TN HB1965

Crossfiled AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 36; Title 37; Title 39; Title 41 and Title 49, relative to corporal punishment.

Previously Filed As

TN HB1965

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 36; Title 37; Title 39; Title 41 and Title 49, relative to corporal punishment.

TN HB1899

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49 and Title 62, relative to school safety.

TN SB2025

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49 and Title 62, relative to school safety.

TN HB1183

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8 and Title 49, relative to education.

TN HB7063

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49 and Title 62, relative to school safety.

TN SB7094

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 37; Title 38; Title 49 and Title 62, relative to school safety.

TN SB0714

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7 and Title 49, relative to education.

TN HB2752

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 10; Title 33; Title 36; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 49; Title 50 and Title 70, relative to firearms.

TN HB2678

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 8; Title 9; Title 37; Title 49; Title 50; Title 66 and Title 67, relative to education.

TN SB2557

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 8; Title 9; Title 37; Title 49; Title 50; Title 66 and Title 67, relative to education.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.