House Bill 902 aims to enhance substance abuse and violence prevention education in Tennessee schools by mandating that each local education agency (LEA) and public charter school implement an evidence-based program for students in grades three through twelve. The bill specifies that the program must include drug prevention education, promote anti-drug norms, and teach life skills that foster personal self-management and social skills. Additionally, the program must be provided throughout the school year and should supplement existing educational initiatives, such as the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program and character education.

The bill also establishes a three-year pilot program administered by the Department of Education, which will provide grants to three LEAs to support their substance abuse and violence prevention programs. To qualify for the grant, an LEA must already have an existing program and submit an application. The maximum grant amount is set at $13,300, and participating LEAs are required to report on the effectiveness of their programs annually. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law, with the pilot program beginning in the 2026-2027 school year.