Education - As introduced, enacts the "Protecting Tennessee Schools and Events Act." - Amends TCA Title 12 and Title 49.

HB 399, the "Protecting Tennessee Schools and Events Act," creates a state grant program to provide portable walk-through metal detectors to school districts in counties identified as distressed or at-risk by economic metrics. The bill allocates funds to cover the full cost of purchasing, installing, and training staff on these detectors, with grants limited to $16,000 per detector (up to $48,000 per school district). Eligible districts must apply on a first-come, first-served basis by July 1, 2025, and detectors must meet specific standards like IP54 ingress protection and modular design. The program specifically targets security for students and staff during all school hours and after-school events, including athletic competitions and assemblies.