Tennessee Republican Senator Seeks Changes to State Book Ban Law
A Republican state senator plans to revise Tennessee’s book ban law after acclaimed works like “Roots” were removed from school libraries by district committees.
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE — A Republican state senator announced plans to revise Tennessee’s library book review law following the removal of acclaimed literary works from school shelves, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel “Roots.”
State Sen. Richard Briggs of Knoxville said he will sponsor legislation to modify the Age-Appropriate Materials Act, which allows school district committees to remove books deemed inappropriate for students. The law, originally passed in 2022 at Governor Bill Lee’s request and updated in 2024, has faced criticism after several high-profile book removals.
“But then if somebody thinks it was wrong to pull the book, ultimately the decision needs to be made by elected people who are accountable to the public, which would be the school board,” Briggs said.
Knox County Controversy Sparks Action
The Republican lawmaker’s proposal comes after Knox County Schools removed “Roots” by Alex Haley from library shelves. A school district committee determined the book violated state policy against materials containing nudity, sexual content, excessive violence or sadomasochistic abuse. A section depicting the rape of enslaved woman Kizzy by her enslaver led to the book’s removal.
Briggs, a retired U.S. Army physician, said he was “appalled” by the decision to remove the groundbreaking work about African American history. The senator also expressed concern over the removal of “The Kite Runner,” an award-winning novel set in Afghanistan where he served a military tour.
Knox County Schools Superintendent Jon Rysewyk later opted to return “Roots” to high school libraries following public outcry. The Knox County School Board voted last week to urge the legislature to modify the state law.
Current Law Under Scrutiny
Under the existing Age-Appropriate Materials Act, books can be pulled from shelves based solely on decisions made by school district committees. The current process does not require public records of complaints or transparent review procedures.
Briggs emphasized he does not oppose initial book reviews but believes the system needs reform to prevent the removal of important literary works. His proposed changes would ensure school boards, as elected officials accountable to voters, have final authority over book removal decisions.
The veteran Knoxville lawmaker’s announcement reflects growing debate over book policies in Tennessee schools. Critics argue the current law lacks proper oversight and has resulted in the removal of educationally valuable materials.
Legislative Timeline
Briggs indicated he plans to introduce the clarifying legislation during the upcoming legislative session. The proposed changes would specifically address accountability measures and decision-making processes within the Age-Appropriate Materials Act.
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between parental concerns about age-appropriate content and educational advocates who argue important historical and literary works should remain accessible to students. School districts across Tennessee continue to navigate implementation of the state law while facing pressure from various community groups.
Tennessee’s book review policies have drawn national attention as part of broader debates over educational content and parental rights in schools. The outcome of Briggs’ proposed legislation could influence how other states approach similar policies.
