Teachers, Principals and School Personnel - As enacted, increases from 20 to 30, the maximum number of consecutive days a substitute teacher may substitute for a regular teacher on leave without having to possess a teaching license; requires the six weeks of paid parental leave for eligible employees to be taken either consecutively or non-consecutively based on certain criteria. - Amends TCA Section 8-50-814; Title 49, Chapter 6 and Title 49, Chapter 3, Part 3.

HB 1253 increases the maximum consecutive days a substitute teacher can work without a teaching license from 20 to 30 days in Tennessee public schools. It also changes the paid parental leave policy for eligible school employees, allowing six weeks of leave to be taken either consecutively or non-consecutively (based on specified criteria), rather than requiring consecutive use. These changes amend Tennessee Code Annotated Section 8-50-814 and Titles 49, Chapters 6 and 3, Part 3. The law takes effect July 1, 2025.