Senate Bill 688, also known as House Bill 708, amends the Tennessee Code Annotated regarding the subpoena power of the state board of education. The bill specifically revises Section 49-5-415 by deleting the existing language and substituting it with new provisions that empower the chair of the state board, or their designee, to issue subpoenas. These subpoenas can compel the appearance of individuals or the production of various items, such as documents, videos, and audio recordings, deemed relevant to investigations conducted by the state board or accountability hearings for local education agencies and public charter schools that receive a "D" or "F" letter grade.

The new language clarifies the scope of the state board's authority in revoking, suspending, or reprimanding licensed educators, as well as in conducting accountability hearings. This legislative change aims to enhance the board's ability to gather necessary information for its investigations and hearings, thereby improving oversight and accountability within the education system in Tennessee. The act is set to take effect immediately upon becoming law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 49-5-415