House Bill 545, sponsored by Cochran, amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, to enhance the professional development of teachers in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom. The bill mandates that the department provide at least one professional development course that offers asynchronous instruction on AI, available at no cost to teachers in grades six through twelve. The course content must be developed by an experienced entity in relevant fields such as computer science or other STEM disciplines.

Additionally, the bill requires that by August 1, 2027, or within two years of obtaining a teaching license, teachers in grades six through twelve must complete at least one department-approved professional development course on AI. Local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools are tasked with approving professional development points for teachers who complete this training, in accordance with the state board of education's policies. The act will take effect upon becoming law, emphasizing the importance of integrating AI education into teacher training.