Senate Bill 1774 amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated to enhance the definitions and consequences related to harassment, bullying, and intimidation within educational settings. The bill redefines "bullying" to include acts by school employees or students that significantly disrupt a victim's educational experience, whether occurring on or off school property. It introduces new definitions for "school employee" and "victim," clarifying that a victim can be any student if the act is committed by a school employee, or another student if the act is committed by a student.

Additionally, the bill establishes that teachers or school employees found guilty of harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyberbullying may face dismissal or suspension. It also mandates that school districts adopt policies addressing these behaviors, with specific provisions for consequences if such acts violate these policies. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2026, and will apply to incidents occurring on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39-17-308(e), 39-17-308, 49-6-4503(b)(3), 49-6-4503, 49-5-501(7), 49-5-501