Senate Bill 189 aims to establish a grant program for eligible students enrolled full-time in undergraduate studies at public institutions of higher education in Tennessee who voluntarily receive testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) is tasked with implementing this program, which includes developing a grant application process, notifying students about the program, and ensuring that public institutions accept and verify grant applications. Each eligible student can receive a grant of $250 per academic year for up to four years, with the funds designated for tuition, mandatory fees, textbooks, and course materials.

The bill also establishes a separate account in the general fund called the student STD testing grant fund, which will be funded through appropriations by the general assembly and other donations. The commissioner of finance and administration is authorized to carry forward any remaining funds at the end of each fiscal year, and the state treasurer will invest the fund for its benefit. The act will take effect upon becoming law for the purpose of promulgating rules, while the grant program will be applicable starting January 1, 2026, for the 2026-2027 academic year and beyond.