A bill filed in Tennessee by Senator Heidi Campbell and State Representative Jason Powell would officially prohibit corporal punishment, known as paddling or spanking, in schools for Tennessee students. The law, if passed, would apply to all school officials, including teachers and administrators.

Currently, Tennessee law allows for corporal punishment for good cause to maintain discipline and order within the public schools. There are some exceptions, such as if the student has a disability. However, parents of a child with a disability are currently able to submit permission in writing for corporal punishment if necessary.

In that case, state law says the principal must inform the parent that the school will use corporal punishment on their child.

The bill has passed the initial steps. It will be considered soon by a committee.