SB1968

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 37, Chapter 1, Part 1; Title 49, Chapter 1; Title 49, Chapter 2 and Title 49, Chapter 6, relative to attendance.

Complete·5/5/26

SB1968 amends Tennessee's truancy laws to include unexcused absences from previous schools when a student transfers.

SB1968 amends Tennessee's truancy laws by ensuring that unexcused absences from a student's previous school are counted when they transfer to a new school. This change applies to students in kindergarten through grade twelve. The bill also allows judges to impose fines or community service on parents or guardians if their child accumulates five or more unexcused absences. Additionally, it mandates that schools report students with excessive absences to juvenile court, where the judge can decide on appropriate interventions. The act takes effect on July 1, 2026.

Included in complete analysis

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

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Sponsors

0
1
R
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

66 Yea

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24 Nay

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5 Not Voting

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Calendar

Feb 25

3:00 PM

Senate Education Hearing

History

May 5

Pub. Ch. 844

May 5

Effective date(s) 07/01/2026

Apr 27

Senate

Signed by Governor.