House Bill 515, sponsored by Gillespie, amends Tennessee Code Annotated to enhance the dissemination of information regarding Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes in public education settings. Starting August 1, 2025, local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools that provide information on immunizations, infectious diseases, medications, or other health issues to parents and guardians of K-12 students will also be required to include information about diabetes. This information will be developed and published by the Department of Education in collaboration with the Department of Health, ensuring that it is accessible for free download by schools.
The publication mandated by the bill will include essential details about Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, such as descriptions of the conditions, associated risk factors and warning signs, recommendations for consulting primary care providers for screening, and guidance on developing treatment plans post-diagnosis. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law, emphasizing the importance of diabetes awareness and education in schools to support the health of students.