Senate Bill 1569, also known as House Bill 1771, amends the Tennessee Code Annotated to introduce a new section in Title 41, Chapter 1, Part 1, focusing on education assessments for inmates. The bill defines "education assessment" as an evaluation administered to inmates to gather information about their highest educational level and their interest in furthering their education. It mandates that the Department of Correction conduct these assessments during the intake of each inmate sentenced for a felony and at least annually thereafter. Additionally, for inmates serving confinement for felony offenses after July 1, 2026, annual assessments are required.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that the Department of Correction must inform eligible inmates about available educational programming and opportunities within 90 days of their education assessment. This initiative aims to enhance educational access for inmates, thereby supporting their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.