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SB 1665

Human Rights - As introduced, includes "honorifics" in the prohibition on requiring a student, teacher, state employee, or state contractor to use or provide a person's preferred name or pronoun. - Amends TCA Title 8, Chapter 50; Title 49, Chapter 7, Part 24 and Title 49, Chapter 6, Part 51.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Rose

Tennessee law prohibits public schools and state employers from requiring use of preferred names, pronouns, or honorifics, affecting transgender recognition in official contexts.

Signed by Senate Speaker
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Bill Summary · SB 1665

Legislative bill overview

SB 1665 prohibits requiring students, teachers, state employees, and state contractors to use or provide a person's preferred name, pronouns, or honorifics. The bill amends Tennessee's education and employment codes to establish this restriction across public schools and state-level employment relationships.

Why is this important

This legislation directly impacts how institutions must address gender identity and naming preferences in official contexts. It affects workplace policies, school records, and the legal obligations of public employers in Tennessee, with potential consequences for transgender and non-binary individuals navigating these systems.

Potential points of contention

  • Free speech and conscience concerns: Opponents argue mandating speech restrictions violates First Amendment protections, while supporters contend they're preventing forced expression
  • Transgender rights and dignity: LGBTQ+ advocates argue the prohibition harms vulnerable populations by denying recognition of identity, while supporters claim it protects parental rights and traditional naming conventions
  • Practical implementation: Ambiguity exists around record-keeping systems—whether legal names alone are sufficient for identification, and how to handle federal forms requiring consistency with legal documentation

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

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