Major Victories for Parental Rights & Child Protection

Our children face unprecedented challenges in today's world. From dangerous content on social media to radical ideologies in schools, kids are under attack from forces that seek to undermine parental authority. But Tennessee Republicans fought back during the 114th General Assembly with comprehensive legislation to protect children and strengthen families.

Protecting Children from Harm:

• Criminalized AI-Generated Content Involving Minors - We made it a crime to create, possess, or distribute artificial intelligence content involving children. This groundbreaking legislation addresses new threats from technology that predators use to exploit kids.

• Strengthened Child Abuse Penalties - We enhanced penalties for those who harm children and required mental health evaluations for those convicted of certain crimes, including child abuse and animal cruelty.

• Enhanced Sex Offender Penalties - We expanded penalties for sex offenders because those who prey on children deserve the harshest consequences our justice system can deliver.

Protecting Children in Schools:

• Ensured Biological Reality in Schools - We passed legislation ensuring children use bathrooms and facilities that correspond to their biological sex. This protects the privacy, safety, and dignity of all students.

• Banned Red 40 in Schools - We prohibited this harmful artificial dye in school foods, protecting children's health.

• Banned Wireless Devices in Schools - We gave school districts the option to ban cell phones and other wireless devices, allowing teachers to teach and students to learn without digital distractions.

Strengthening Families:

• Foster Children's Bill of Rights - We established fundamental protections for children in foster care.

• Protected Children in Custody Cases - We strengthened laws protecting children during difficult family situations.

• Increased Access to Child Care - We made it easier for working families to find quality, affordable childcare.

• More Recess for Children - We ensured kids get adequate time for physical activity and play.

Every child deserves to grow up in safety, with parents who love them and schools that support rather than subvert family values.