On May 9, 2025, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed Public Chapter 453, which amended several sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, including Title 4, Title 8, Title 9, Chapter 8, Title 29, Chapter 20, and Title 49. It passed the Tennessee House Ayes 77, Nays 18; and Senate Ayes 27, Nays 6.
This new law focuses on the use of pronouns in public schools. It reinforces the idea that constitutional rights do not diminish within educational institutions and demonstrates a commitment to freedom of speech.
At its core, the law emphasizes individual rights, asserting that no student, teacher, or contractor can be compelled to utilize preferred pronouns of students that differ from their biological sex. This provision highlights the ongoing tension between personal identity expression and traditional understandings of gender. By aligning pronoun usage with biological sex, the law offers legal protections for those who choose to adhere to this standard, framing it as a matter of free speech.
The implications of this legislation are profound and multifaceted. First, the law establishes that educators are shielded from civil liability when they opt for names and pronouns that correspond with a person’s biological sex, even if these choices conflict with an individual's preferred identifiers. This aspect may serve to create a sense of safety for educators who might otherwise feel pressured to conform to evolving norms regarding gender identity. However, it raises questions about the inclusivity of educational environments and the potential marginalization of some students.
The law requires teachers to address unemancipated minor students using their biological names and pronouns unless they obtain written consent from a parent or guardian. This ensures parental involvement in discussions about children's identities. However, it may lead to conflicts between parental beliefs and changing societal norms around gender.
Teachers and staff of public schools or Local Education Agencies (LEAs) are prohibited from addressing a minor student by any name other than the student's legal name, or by using pronouns or titles inconsistent with the student's sex, without written consent from a parent or guardian.
Another key aspect of the law is the established process for addressing violations. Students and educators are given avenues to file complaints if they feel compelled to use a preferred name or pronoun contrary to the law, with the potential for legal recourse if issues remain unresolved. This creates a framework for accountability but also raises concerns about the potential for contentious disputes within school communities.
The law applies to public institutions of higher education and mandates ongoing notifications regarding rights related to free speech. This demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding free expression at all educational levels. However, the challenge is to find a delicate balance between protecting individual expression and maintaining broader principles of free speech.
Tennessee's amendment on pronoun usage marks a significant change in schools' approach to identity and expression. This often personal issue generates strong opinions, making it essential to respect diverse beliefs while focusing on the law's intent and implementation. Open dialogue is crucial for protecting individual freedoms, and all voices —students, parents, taxpayers, and educators— should be heard. While challenges exist, there is also an opportunity for growth and understanding within our educational environments.
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JC Bowman is the executive director of Professional Educators of Tennessee.