Republican Caucus Chairman Jeremy Faison, Speaker Pro Tempore Ferrell Haile, introduce the Family Rights and Responsibilities Act

House Republican Caucus Chairman Jeremy Faison, R-Cosby, and Senate Speaker Pro Tempore Ferrell Haile, R-Gallatin, and have introduced legislation that explicitly lays out 12 fundamental rights of parents in Tennessee law.

The Family Rights and Responsibilities Act, House Bill 2936/ Senate Bill 2749, protects parents’ fundamental rights and responsibilities to make education, health care, moral and religious decisions for their child. The bill aims to protect children from being indoctrinated by ideologies contrary to the values taught by their parents without interference from a government entity.

“This legislation honors the fundamental role moms and dads play in the lives of their children as lead decision-makers and protectors,” Faison said.  “It shields families from government overreach by ensuring a parent’s inherent right to instill personal values, beliefs and cultural practices is preserved.”

The bill further codifies that only parents and legal guardians can give consent for the collection, storage, or sharing of biometric data, such as facial images and fingerprints, or DNA and blood.

“The relationship between a parent and child predates the institution of government itself. Parents know their children best, and they have the right and responsibility to make decisions in the best interest of the child without undue influence from the government,” Haile said.

“Families are the backbone of our society, and the laws of our society should reflect the sanctity of parents’ fundamental rights.”

House Bill 2936 /Senate Bill 2749 is currently advancing in the House and Senate chambers. It is expected to be heard in the Senate for final consideration on March 7.