SB1741

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to public institutions of higher education.

Complete·5/5/26

Tennessee SB1741 amends higher education laws to mandate freedom of expression policies and protections for invited speakers at public institutions.

Tennessee SB1741, known as the "Charlie Kirk Act," requires public institutions of higher education to adopt a statement on freedom of expression similar to the University of Chicago's policy. This statement must be incorporated into the institution's bylaws and posted on its website. The act prohibits public institutions and their faculty members from refusing to invite speakers based on viewpoints or canceling speaker invitations due to protests. It also mandates a statement on the institution's role in political and social action, similar to the University of Chicago's Kalven Report.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Sponsors

0
9
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Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

74 Yea

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22 Nay

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Calendar

Mar 18

1:00 PM

Senate Education Hearing

Mar 11

3:00 PM

Senate Education Hearing

History

May 5

Pub. Ch. 831

May 5

Effective date(s) 04/27/2026, 07/01/2026

Apr 27

Senate

Signed by Governor.