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SB 1332

Education - As enacted, prohibits excusing a student from school to attend a released time course in religious moral instruction during the school year unless certain criteria are met. - Amends TCA Title 49, Chapter 2; Title 49, Chapter 5 and Title 49, Chapter 6.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Bobby Harshbarger

Tennessee law now restricts student excusals for released-time religious instruction courses during school year, requiring schools to meet new state-defined criteria before permitting absences.

Pub. Ch. 401
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Bill Summary · SB 1332

Legislative bill overview

SB 1332 restricts students' ability to leave school for "released time" religious instruction courses during the school year in Tennessee. The bill establishes specific criteria that must be met before schools can excuse students for these off-campus religious education programs, tightening what were previously more permissive policies.

Why is this important

Released time programs have existed for decades, allowing students to receive religious instruction during school hours at off-campus locations. This bill represents a significant shift in how Tennessee schools can accommodate such programs, potentially affecting thousands of students who participate in these courses and the religious organizations that offer them. The restrictions also intersect with broader debates about the appropriate relationship between public education and religious practice.

Potential points of contention

  • Religious freedom concerns: Opponents may argue the restrictions burden students' and families' religious exercise by making it harder to participate in faith-based education during school time.
  • Secular/religious balance: Supporters may contend the state shouldn't facilitate religious instruction during school hours, while critics counter this unfairly disadvantages religious compared to secular enrichment activities.
  • Implementation details: The bill's "certain criteria" aren't fully detailed in this summary, leaving questions about what standards schools must apply and whether they'll be applied consistently across districts.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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