(a) American sign language is recognized and adopted as the official and native sign language of the deaf in this state.
Terms Used In Tennessee Code 49-6-1009
State: when applied to the different parts of the United States, includes the District of Columbia and the several territories of the United States. See Tennessee Code 1-3-105
(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.
