114th General Assembly: Historic Wins for Child Protection & Parental Rights

Our children face unprecedented threats in today's digital age, from online predators to age-inappropriate content in schools. During the 114th General Assembly, Tennessee Republicans passed the most comprehensive child protection legislation in the nation while strengthening parental rights and family authority.

Protecting Children from Digital Exploitation:

• Criminalized AI-Generated Content Involving Minors - We made Tennessee the first state to specifically criminalize the creation, possession, or distribution of artificial intelligence-generated content involving children. This groundbreaking legislation addresses emerging threats that predators use to exploit and harm kids.

• Enhanced Child Abuse Penalties - We significantly strengthened penalties for those who harm children and required mental health evaluations for individuals convicted of child abuse and animal cruelty, recognizing the proven connection between violence against animals and violence against humans.

• Expanded Sex Offender Penalties - We increased penalties for sex offenders because those who prey on children deserve the maximum consequences our justice system can impose.

Ensuring Safe School Environments:

• Protected Biological Reality in Schools - We ensured children use bathrooms and facilities that correspond to their biological sex, protecting the privacy, safety, and dignity of all students while rejecting dangerous gender ideology.

• Removed Harmful Additives from School Food - We banned Red 40 artificial dye from school meals, protecting children's developing bodies and minds from unnecessary chemical exposure.

• Eliminated Digital Distractions - We gave school districts the authority to ban cell phones and wireless devices during school hours, allowing teachers to teach and students to learn without constant digital interruptions.

Strengthening Family Structure:

• Foster Children's Bill of Rights - We established comprehensive protections for Tennessee's most vulnerable children in foster care, ensuring they receive the dignity and support they deserve.

• Protected Children in Custody Disputes - We strengthened laws protecting children during family conflicts, ensuring their best interests remain the priority in custody decisions.

• Expanded Access to Quality Childcare - We made it easier for working families to find reliable, affordable childcare options, supporting parents who are working hard to provide for their children.

• Promoted the Success Sequence - We required a family life curriculum to teach the proven path to prosperity: education, employment, marriage, then children. This evidence-based approach equips young people with the tools for successful and stable lives.

• Ensured More Physical Activity - We ensured children receive adequate recess time for physical activity and social development.

Why These Protections Matter: Children are not miniature adults - they need protection, guidance, and age-appropriate boundaries. Parents, not government bureaucrats or activists, should make decisions about their children's upbringing, education, and values.

Every child deserves to grow up in a safe environment, with loving parents and schools that support rather than undermine family authority.