House Bill 304 amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated to regulate the display of flags by governmental entities, local governments, and public schools. The bill defines "display" to include exhibiting or placing flags in visible locations, such as public courthouses, roadways, or sidewalks. It prohibits the display of any flags other than the United States flag and the official Tennessee state flag, with exceptions for specific circumstances outlined in existing law. Citizens are granted standing to file civil actions against governmental entities or local governments for violations, and prevailing plaintiffs may recover reasonable costs and attorney fees.

Additionally, the bill imposes restrictions on public schools regarding flag displays, allowing only certain flags, such as those representing the U.S., Tennessee, and various military and educational institutions. It establishes a process for parents or guardians to file civil actions against local education agencies or public charter schools for violations, provided they first give written notice of the alleged violation. The bill also includes a provision that ensures its application is consistent with constitutional protections. Overall, the legislation aims to standardize flag displays across public entities in Tennessee while providing mechanisms for enforcement.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 49-1-201(c)(16), 49-1-201, 49-6-2005, 58-4-302(b)(1), 58-4-302