TN HB1998

Schools may use stationary metal detectors, weapons detection systems, or handheld screening devices to check students and visitors for dangerous weapons, drug paraphernalia, or drugs before entry to school buildings or grounds

Secondary searches are authorized when initial screening indicates potential presence of prohibited items; these may be conducted by school resource officers, security officers, trained administrators, or principal-designated employees who have completed required training

Physical searches of a student's person or non-removable items (such as clothing pockets) must follow existing student search procedures under § 49-6-4205

Physical searches of visitors must be conducted only by school resource officers, security officers, or trained administrators—not by other designated employees

Searches must comply with Fourth Amendment protections and the Tennessee Constitution; law enforcement officers retain authority to conduct lawful searches on school property