House Bill 545 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, by introducing a new section that mandates the Department of Education to provide at least one professional development course on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom for teachers in grades six through twelve (6-12). This course will be available at no cost and can be used by teachers to earn professional development points. The content of the course must be developed by an entity experienced in relevant fields such as computer science or other STEM disciplines.

Additionally, the bill requires that by August 1, 2028, or within two years of becoming licensed as a teacher, whichever is later, teachers in grades 6-12 must complete at least one department-approved professional development course on AI. 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. The amendment to the original bill changes the deadline for completion from August 1, 2027, to August 1, 2028.