House Bill 1491, also known as the "Protecting Religious Liberty and Expression in Public Schools Act," seeks to amend Tennessee law to enhance the role of religious expression in public schools. The bill introduces a new part to Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, which includes provisions for teaching the Bible as literature, allowing periods of prayer and Bible reading, and establishing guidelines for student participation. It mandates that public schools provide opportunities for students and employees to engage in prayer and reading of religious texts, while ensuring that participation is voluntary and that students can be excused upon request. The bill also outlines the enforcement mechanisms and remedies available for violations, including civil actions for noncompliance.

Additionally, the bill includes specific definitions related to the separation of church and state doctrine and establishes that state officers or employees can only enforce this doctrine in compliance with court judgments or direct rulings from the U.S. Supreme Court. It introduces a fee-shifting provision, making those who sue to enforce the separation of church and state liable for the prevailing party's costs and attorney's fees. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and includes a severability clause to ensure that if any provision is found invalid, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable.