TN SB1077

Institute of American Civics at University of Tennessee, Knoxville must develop a 3-semester-hour curriculum in American government or history covering the U.S. Constitution, Declaration of Independence, at least 5 Federalist Papers essays, Emancipation Proclamation, Gettysburg Address, MLK's Letter from Birmingham Jail, and one additional document from the African-American freedom struggle

All Tennessee public colleges and universities must offer this course beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year, including a cumulative final exam testing proficiency on the required documents

Students entering as freshmen in 2025-2026 and later must complete this 3-credit course to earn a baccalaureate degree from any Tennessee public institution

Students may satisfy the requirement through AP, International Baccalaureate, or dual credit courses that cover the same content and include a final exam

Governing boards must incorporate this requirement without adding credit hours to degrees or conflicting with accreditation, and must submit annual compliance reports to legislative education and finance committees