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 areas, such as public courthouses, roadways, or sidewalks, and prohibits the display of any flags other than the United States flag and the official state flag of Tennessee, with certain exceptions. Citizens are granted standing to file civil actions against governmental entities or local governments for violations, and prevailing plaintiffs may recover their legal costs.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific regulations for local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools regarding flag displays, allowing only certain flags, such as those representing the U.S., Tennessee, and various military and educational institutions. It also establishes a process for parents or guardians to file civil actions against schools for violations, provided they give notice and an opportunity to remedy the issue. The bill includes a provision that ensures its application is consistent with constitutional protections.

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