(a) American sign language is recognized and adopted as the official and native sign language of the deaf in this state.(b) It is the intent of the general assembly to:(1) Formally express its respect for American sign language;(2) Promote public awareness of and appreciation for American sign language, its use and its benefits;(3) Preserve the culture and heritage of American sign language; and(4) Encourage Tennessee schools to offer courses in American sign language and to accept these courses as satisfying foreign language requirements.(c) The state board of education shall adopt a policy allowing American sign language courses to satisfy the foreign language credits required for graduation.Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 270,s 1, eff. 7/1/2017.Acts 1990, ch. 659, § 2.
Tennessee Legal Code