Section 49-6-1009 - American sign language(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.