House Bill 545 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, by introducing a new section that mandates the provision of professional development courses focused on artificial intelligence for teachers in grades six through twelve (6-12). The bill requires the department to offer at least one asynchronous course at no cost to teachers, which can be used to earn professional development points. The course content must be developed by an experienced entity in relevant fields such as computer science or other STEM disciplines.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that by August 1, 2027, or within two years of obtaining a teaching license, teachers in grades 6-12 must complete at least one department-approved professional development course on artificial intelligence. Local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools are tasked with approving the professional development points in accordance with the state board of education's policies. This legislation aims to enhance teachers' understanding and integration of artificial intelligence in educational settings.