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HB 88

Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA) - As introduced, increases, from $200 to $500, the amount each LEA and public charter school is required to pay each teacher in kindergarten through grade 12 for the purchase of instructional supplies. - Amends TCA Title 49, Chapter 3.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Yusuf Hakeem

Tennessee requires schools to increase per-teacher supply funding from $200 to $500 annually, reducing but not eliminating teacher out-of-pocket classroom expenses.

Taken off notice for cal in s/c Finance, Ways, and Means Subcommittee of Finance, Ways, and Means Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 88

Legislative bill overview

HB 88 requires Tennessee school districts and charter schools to increase their annual supply allowance for teachers from $200 to $500 per educator in grades K-12. This is a modest expansion of existing budget obligations to support classroom instructional materials that teachers currently purchase or use.

Why is this important

Teachers nationwide frequently spend personal money on classroom supplies, and this increase acknowledges that burden while potentially reducing out-of-pocket expenses. The change affects school budgets statewide and could improve resource equity across districts, though the absolute dollar increase remains limited relative to actual teacher supply spending.

Potential points of contention

  • Budget impact: Schools must absorb an additional $300 per teacher annually; larger districts face significant cumulative costs that may require budget reallocation or reduced spending elsewhere
  • Sufficiency debate: While well-intentioned, $500 remains below documented teacher out-of-pocket spending ($479-$1,000+ nationally), so teachers may still supplement with personal funds
  • Implementation logistics: Unclear whether funds are pre-allocated, reimbursement-based, or flexible in use, affecting practical teacher access to supplies

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

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