House Bill 902 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, by introducing a new requirement for local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools to implement an evidence-based substance abuse and violence prevention program for students in grades three through twelve. The program aims to reduce tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drug use among students and must include drug-prevention education that promotes anti-drug norms, teaches drug-refusal skills, and provides life skills training. Additionally, the program must be delivered throughout the school year and is designed to supplement existing drug abuse and life skills education, including programs like DARE and character education.

The bill specifies that the new prevention program should not replace any current educational initiatives related to drug abuse or life skills. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and will apply to the 2025-2026 school year and subsequent years.