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SB 314

Public Employees - As enacted, authorizes an eligible education employee to qualify for paid leave during the legal process for adopting a newly placed minor child, specifically during that period of time beginning with the filing of a petition for adoption when a minor child is initially placed within the residence of a prospective adoptive parent pursuant to a court-ordered parental power of attorney or guardianship or custodial order until the issuance of a final order of adoption by the court. - Amends TCA Title 8, Chapter 50; Title 36 and Title 37, Chapter 1.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Jeff Yarbro

Tennessee education employees gain paid leave during adoption proceedings from child placement through final court approval of adoption.

Pub. Ch. 163
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Bill Summary · SB 314

Legislative bill overview

SB 314 establishes paid leave entitlements for Tennessee education employees who are adopting minor children. The leave covers the period from when a child is initially placed in the home through the finalization of the adoption, allowing employees to use paid time off during the legal adoption process.

Why is this important

Adoption can involve multiple court proceedings and administrative requirements spanning months or years, during which prospective parents must attend hearings and handle paperwork. Without paid leave protections, education employees might face financial pressure to choose between career stability and completing the adoption process. This policy aims to reduce barriers to adoption while maintaining employee income and job security.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope limitations: The policy applies only to education employees, potentially creating disparities compared to other public sector workers or private sector employees who may lack similar protections
  • Cost and resource allocation: School districts bear the cost of substitute teachers and coverage during adoption leave, which could strain budgets in some districts or compete with classroom funding priorities
  • Definition precision: The bill's reliance on court orders (parental power of attorney, guardianship, custodial orders) may create administrative complexity in determining eligibility and calculating leave periods across different adoption pathways

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

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