Senate Bill 1953 amends Tennessee Code Annotated to enhance civics education in public schools. Starting in the 2027-2028 school year, each local education agency (LEA) and public charter school is required to present a state board-approved civics instructional video to students in grades six through eight and grades nine through twelve at least once. The state board must approve at least one civics video by July 1, 2027, which must be historically accurate and free from political advocacy.

The approved video must cover specific content, including the preamble of the Declaration of Independence and the significance of the phrase "We hold these truths to be self-evident," as well as the religious affiliations and moral beliefs of the founding fathers associated with the Articles of Confederation and the Constitutional Convention. This legislation aims to ensure that students receive a comprehensive understanding of civics and the foundational principles of the United States.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 49-6-1028