Senate Bill 1974, known as the "Parental Right to Participate in Schools Act," amends Tennessee Code Annotated to provide state employees who are parents or guardians with the right to take up to forty-eight hours of leave per calendar year to attend school-related activities for their children. The bill defines key terms such as "employee," "employer," "parent or guardian," and "school-related activity." Employees can choose to take this leave as unpaid or utilize available paid leave options, and they must provide at least ten days' advance written notice unless the activity is unforeseen. Employers have the authority to deny leave if it would significantly disrupt operations.

Additionally, the bill mandates that employers post notice of this leave entitlement in a visible location within the workplace, with penalties for non-compliance. The enforcement of this section will be overseen by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, allowing employees to file complaints regarding any violations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.