WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 319

Education, Curriculum - As enacted, adds instruction for public high school students on this state's safe haven law to the required components of a family life curriculum. - Amends TCA Title 49.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee now requires high schools to teach students about the state's safe haven law allowing parents to relinquish newborn rights anonymously without legal consequences.

Pub. Ch. 164
#curriculum #education
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 319

Legislative bill overview

SB 319 mandates that Tennessee public high schools include instruction on the state's safe haven law as part of their required family life curriculum. The safe haven law allows parents or guardians to relinquish parental rights of infants (typically under 30 days old) to designated safe locations without legal consequences. This addition became effective April 11, 2025.

Why is this important

Students who become parents or know pregnant peers now receive official education about this legal option, potentially reducing infant abandonment and deaths. The requirement ensures consistent, statewide awareness of a resource that addresses crisis pregnancies and child welfare, though its effectiveness depends on curriculum implementation quality and student engagement.

Potential points of contention

  • Curriculum scope creep: Opponents may argue family life curriculum is already crowded and question whether safe haven law instruction is the most impactful use of limited classroom time
  • Implementation concerns: Schools must develop appropriate instructional materials; clarity is needed on depth of coverage, age-appropriateness, and whether this displaces other family life topics
  • Messaging complexity: Balancing information about safe haven law with broader messaging about parental responsibility, adoption alternatives, and available support services requires careful pedagogical design

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

Sign in to ask a question.