Governor signs saggy pants bill

Friday, April 20, 2012, Vol. 36, No. 16

NASHVILLE (AP) — A proposal that would prohibit students from dressing in an "indecent manner" at school has been signed by the governor.

Gov. Bill Haslam signed the measure this week. The legislation prohibits students from exposing "underwear or body parts in an indecent manner that disrupts the learning environment."

A stricter version of the proposal failed to pass the Legislature three years ago. That measure targeted individuals who wear pants below the waistline and imposed a fine of up to $250 and 160 hours of community service.

Under the current legislation, school districts would decide a less severe punishment.

The Republican governor earlier this month cited coverage of the saggy pants bill as an example of what he called the media's failure to pay attention to substantive measures.