INDEX OF ACTS
RELATED TO COUNTY GOVERNMENT
2026 EDITION
…a service of The University of Tennessee
Prepared by
CTAS Legal Staff
June 2026
These summaries are intended for information only and should not be relied upon for implementation purposes. The full text of all acts summarized in this publication can be viewed on the Secretary of State’s website.
- PART I - PUBLIC ACTS OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- COUNTY CLERKS
Public Chapter 628 Hybrid Electric Vehicles
SB 1742 - HB 1874 Amends Title 55, Chapter 4 to clarify that a hybrid electric vehicle is a vehicle propelled by a combination of an electric motor and an internal combustion engine; and does not include a low or medium speed vehicle.
Effective March 26, 2026.
Public Chapter 648 Precious Cargo Act
SB 1635 - HB 1942 Amends Title 55, Chapter 21, Part 3 to clarify that a “medical condition” includes communication disorders, including speech, language, and fluency disorders, such as stuttering, The Precious Cargo Act authorizes drivers with certain medical conditions to apply for a designation in the Tennessee Vehicle Title and Registration System database of the need for communicating with first responders during a traffic stop.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 954 Driver’s License
SB 1889 – HB 1708 Amends TCA 55-50-322 to provide that if an applicant for a driver’s is unable to speak and read English, then an applicant may take a written test in another language that is offered by the department. If the applicant takes a driver’s license test in another language, then the driver’s license is non-renewable and is valid for 36 months. When the license expires, an applicant must take the written test in English and may not use a dictionary, interpreter, or electronic device to assist with the test. This law does not apply to an applicant for a commercial driver’s license, or someone that can read and write English but has a hearing impairment and has provided documentation from their doctor.
Amends Title 55, Chapter 4, Part 1 by adding a new section to provide that the commissioner or county clerk shall not process an application for initial issuance of registration of a vehicle in which a license plate is issued until the applicant provides documentation, paper or electronic that the person is 1) a U.S. citizen, 2) a lawful permanent resident of the U.S.; or 3) a person who has been authorized by the federal government to be in the U.S. for a specific purpose and for a specified authorized stay. A REAL ID, Tennessee driver's license or temporary driver’s license, and a photo ID or temporary photo ID are satisfactory. The department will publish a full list of other acceptable forms on its website that can be used. Display of images on cell phones or other portable devices are acceptable electronic formats. Every registration and renewal must be accompanied by a notice that the owner and/or operator of the vehicle is required to be a US citizen, lawful permanent resident, or lawful temporary resident. If a dealer handles registration, then the dealer must obtain required identification/documentation and submit it with the application for registration.
Amends TCA 55-50-321 to make other related changes.
For the purposes of coordinating data sharing between the department and county clerks, and creating rules and forms, the act takes effect May 7, 2026. For all other purposes the act takes effect on January 1, 2027.
Public Chapter 969 Military Exemption for All-Electric Vehicle Renewal
SB 1738 – HB 1522 Amends 55-4-116 to provide that an active military member of the United States who is stationed outside this state who is seeking to renew a registration for an all-electric vehicle is exempt from paying any additional registration fees as required by 55-4-116. The service member must provide the county clerk with a copy of the official orders at the time of vehicle registration renewal. This exemption applies only when the vehicle is titled in the name of the military member, either alone or jointly with a spouse or lineal relative.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1077 Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility
SB 1667 – HB 1690 Amends Title 55, Chapter 4, Part 1 to add a new section to provide that the commissioner or a county clerk shall not process and application for initial issuance of registration of a vehicle unless the person applying for registration provides proof of insurance. Proof of insurance may include the declaration page, insurance binder, or an insurance card from an insurance company authorized to do business in Tennessee. The proof of insurance may be in a paper or electronic format and must be good for at least 30 days. Alternatively, a person applying for initial insurance of registration may provide a certificate issued by the commissioner stating that a cash deposit or bond as required by the Financial Responsibility Law of 1977 has been filed with the commissioner, or the driver has qualified as self-insured 55-12-111. Every initial and renewal of registration must be accompanied by a notice that vehicle owners and operators are required to carry proof of compliance with the Financial Responsibility Law of 1977. This section shall be repealed on June 30, 2029.
Amends 55-12-211 to provide that the neither the department or county clerk shall process a renewal of registration when an owner of a vehicle has been provided a notice for failure to provide proof of insurance until the owner or lessee of the vehicle pays all fees owed and provides proof of insurance. The policy must be in place for at least 30 days.
Substantially increases fees for failure to have insurance. The fees collected will be distributed to the county clerk, the department of revenue, and the uninsured motorist identification restricted fund created in 55-12-213. If the owner of a vehicle receives a subsequent notice within three years of the first notice being issued, then the owner of the vehicle is subject to additional fees, and suspension or revocation of the vehicle registration.
Imposes additional requirements on liability insurance providers.
Amends 29-39-102 and 29-39-103 to make additional changes related to non-economic damages available to plaintiffs who were involved in a automobile collision and who were not in compliance with Financial Responsibility Law of 1977.
Makes other changes related to compliance with the Financial Responsibility Law of 1977.
Sections 1 through 15 become effective January 1, 2027. Sections 16 and 17 are effective May 22, 2026.
- COUNTY GOVERNMENT
Public Chapter 581 Personal Delivery Devices
SB 1625 - HB 1684 Amends 55-8-101 and 55-8-209. Clarifies the areas in which a personal delivery device may be operated and where such devices are prohibited. Personal delivery devices may be regulated or prohibited by local resolutions or ordinances if the local government determines that the regulation or prohibition is necessary, in the interest of public safety. A regulation adopted by a local government must not be inconsistent with this section.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 596 Dual Office Holding Prohibited
SB 624 - HB 618 Amends Title 8, Chapter 50, Part 1. Provides that an individual holding an elected office of a local government shall not hold another elected office in this state at the same time. However, individuals holding an elected office of a local government and another elected office in this state on January 1, 2027, may continue holding such offices and may be reelected to such offices. If an individual ceases holding more than one office after January 1, 2027, then the individual is prohibited from holding more than one office. The prohibition does not apply to an office in a political party's state executive committee.
Effective January 1, 2027.
Public Chapter 599 Adoption of Local Rules
SB 1617 - HB 1488 Enacts a new section at Title 5, Chapter 1, Part 1, to require county legislative bodies to adopt local rules of internal procedure by majority vote within ninety (90) days of convening a newly elected county legislative body. Provides that any changes made during the term after the adoption of the rules are only effective upon approval by 2/3 vote. Also provides that any question not addressed by the applicable local rules is governed by the latest edition of Robert’s Rules of Order.
Effective March 18, 2026
Public Chapter 620 Public Comment
SB 178 - HB 22 Amends 8-44-112 to add subdivision (a)(2) to require local governing bodies (defined separately from the term “governing body”) to allow for comments on both matters germane to items on the agenda and matters germane to the jurisdiction of the body. Defines “local governing body” to include an incorporated city or town, county, metropolitan government, school district, regional authority, or other political subdivision of this state other than a state governmental agency or entity. Entities falling under the definition of “governing body” must still only allow public comment on matters germane to the items on the agenda.
Effective March 26, 2026.
Public Chapter 651 Regulation of E-Bikes
SB 1782 - HB 1712 Amends 55-8-306(a) to authorize local governments to regulate or prohibit, by ordinance or resolution, the operation of Class 1 or Class 2 electric bicycles on any part of a street or highway where bicycles are authorized to travel within its jurisdiction. Grants the same authority to state agencies. Provides that Class 3 electric bicycles shall not be operated on any part of a path or trail where bicycles are authorized to travel unless such operation is authorized by resolution of the local governing body. Also amends 55-8-307(a) to increase the age for operation of a Class 3 electric bicycle from fourteen (14) to sixteen (16) years of age.
Section 1 of the Act is effective April 1, 2026. Section 2 of the Act is effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 670 Fairs and Livestock Shows
SB 1860 - HB 1631 Deletes Title 4, Chapter 57, known as the “Tennessee State Fair and Exposition Act.” Enacts the “Tennessee Agricultural Fair and Livestock Show Act” at Title 43, Chapter 21, Part 1, which provides for state funding support for such fairs and shows. Also enacts the “Tennessee State Fair Act” at Title 43, Chapter 21, Part 3.
Effective April 7, 2026.
Public Chapter 673 TWRA - Taking Wildlife
SB 2028 - HB 2017 Adds 39-17-1314(j)(1) and (j)(2). Notwithstanding subdivision (b )(2) or another law to the contrary, a city, county, town, municipality, or metropolitan government shall not regulate the manner and means of taking wildlife, including the discharge of a firearm while lawfully hunting. Such manner and means of taking wildlife is regulated pursuant to rules promulgated and proclamations issued by the fish and wildlife commission under its delegated authority in Title 70. This part does not prohibit a county or municipality from regulating the discharge of a firearm by a person lawfully hunting within five hundred feet of school property.
Effective April 7, 2026.
Public Chapter 694 Local Government Debt
SB 1679 - HB 1672 Amends 9-13-203(3) to add “utility authority” to the definition of “local government.” Also amends 9-21-206 relative to issuing notes for funds needed due to natural disasters. Also amends 9-21-701 and 9-21-704 relative to grant anticipation notes.
Effective April 13, 2026.
Public Chapter 699 Public Meetings
SB 1775 - HB 1797 Amends 8-44-110(e), relative to providing advance notice of meeting agendas, to include local education agencies within the definition of “local governmental body” and to further expand that definition to include “Any other local governing body as defined in § 8-44-102(b)(1)(A) that also has the authority to make binding decisions or the ability to appropriate funds, excluding a private nonprofit community organization that is eligible to receive funds from the community services block grant program under 42 U.S.C. §§ 9901 - 9926.”
Effective April 14, 2026.
Public Chapter 724 Megasite Authority of West Tennessee
SB 2226 - HB 2538 Amends 64-9-104(a) to add a new subdivision authorizing the authority to issue bonds in the manner provided in Title 7, Chapter 53, for the sole purpose of financing a water or wastewater system operated by the authority.
Effective April 13, 2026.
Public Chapter 739 County Mutual Insurance Companies
SB 2601 - HB 1826 Amends 56-22-106(c). Increases from $100,000 to $250,000 the retained risk limit for a single risk covered by a policy of insurance issued by a county mutual insurance company.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 767 Membership - Group Insurance Committees
SB 2230 - HB 2536 Amends 8-27-701(a). Replaces the members of the local government insurance committee appointed by the Tennessee Municipal League and Tennessee County Services Association with members who are employees of a municipality and a county government and appointed by the commissioner of finance and administration.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 774 TWRA - Raccoons
SB 1704 - HB 2030 Amends 70-4-112 and 122. Repeals statutory requirements related to raccoon hunting, thereby permitting the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission to regulate such activities through proclamations and rules.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 776 Tennessee Local Development Authority
SB 2562 - HB 2255 Amends 4-31-103(c). Removes the requirement that the authority members appointed by the speakers of the house of representatives and senate be nominated by the Tennessee County Services Association or the Tennessee Municipal League.
Effective April 21, 2026.
Public Chapter 820 Health, Educational, and Housing PILOT Approval
SB 1398 – HB 890 Amends 48-101-312(b) to provide that if a PILOT agreement would result in payments to a taxing jurisdiction that would be less than the taxes that would be otherwise payable, then the corporation cannot enter into the agreement until it provides written notice to the chief executive officer of the taxing jurisdiction and that officer either notifies the corporation they do not object to the agreement or that the agreement must be approved by the legislative body of the taxing jurisdiction. Provides that if the chief executive officer does not respond within ten days of receipt of the notice, the corporation may proceed with entering into the agreement. Also provides that any agreement entered into on or after July 1, 2026, must comply with this provision or will be void and unenforceable.
Effective April 27, 2026.
Public Chapter 828 Flag Protocol
SB 1712 - HB 1697 Amends Title 5, Chapter 1, Part 1. Authorizes the county mayor to order the flags flown on county property to be lowered to halfstaff to honor the death of a prominent citizen of that county.
Effective April 27, 2026.
Public Chapter 832 Relocation of Homeless Persons
SB 1788 - HB 1671 Amends Title 71, Chapter 5. A local governmental entity shall not relocate a homeless individual to another jurisdiction unless: (1) The local governmental entity receives written consent for such relocation from the receiving jurisdiction; and (2) The relocation is made through a program established by the local governmental entity for the purpose of reuniting homeless individuals with their place of origin when proof of substantial ties to the place of origin exists. This prohibition does not apply to a local law enforcement agency.
A local governmental entity shall not use public funds to relocate homeless individuals to other jurisdictions unless: (1) The local governmental entity verifies that housing and other necessary services are available for the homeless individuals in the receiving jurisdiction; or (2) The relocation is made through a program established by the local governmental entity for the purpose of reuniting homeless individuals with their place of origin when proof of substantial ties to the place of origin exists. This prohibition does not apply to a local law enforcement agency.
A jurisdiction that is affected by a violation of this law may seek damages and injunctive relief against the local governmental entity.
Effective April 27, 2026.
Public Chapter 854 Subterranean Transportation Infrastructure
SB 2205 – HB 2450 Enacts a new chapter at 65-13-101 et seq. to provide for the creation of a subsurface transportation corridor.
For purposes of promulgating rules, making appointments, hiring employees, and carrying out administrative duties necessary to effectuate this act, this act takes effect April 27, 2026. For all other purposes, this act takes effect July 1, 2026, the public welfare requiring it.
Public Chapter 855 Governor's Response And Recovery Fund
SB 2232 - HB 2543 Amends 9-4-216. Specifies the conditions that must be satisfied for monies from the governor's response and recovery fund to be provided to eligible local governmental entities and to eligible individuals in qualifying counties following an emergency or disaster.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 872 Veterans Service Officers
SB 2483 - HB 2143 Amends Title 58, Chapter 3 by adding a new section. Requires Department of Veterans Services to conduct a study that includes: (1) An evaluation of county veterans service office resources; (2) The identification of underserved areas; (3) Operational capacity, including a review and compilation of county-level workload productivity metrics; (4) Local outreach efforts, community outreach events, partnerships, and other entities providing, or sources of, assistance for veterans at the local level; and (5) The identification of potential funding mechanisms to support local veterans service offices.
Effective April 27, 2026.
Public Chapter 876 Subdivision Developer’s Bond for Sewage Works
SB 564 - HB 803 Amends numerous provisions relative to decentralized wastewater treatment systems using land application.
Provides (besides in Hamilton County) that when a developer of a subdivision proposes to construct a sewage/wastewater treatment works for use by the subdivision, and the design and construction is approved by TDEC, then the developer is required to apply to the utility serving the area in which the system is located requesting that the utility agree to assume operational responsibility and ownership of the treatment works or refuse to own and operate the treatment works.
Provides (besides in Hamilton County) that upon at least 50% of the units within a development being issued a certificate of use and occupancy, that the local government for the jurisdiction where the sewage/wastewater treatment works is or will be installed shall require the developer to obtain and file a performance bond of 100% of the total replacement cost for the first two years that the treatment works is in operation. The operator must file a performance bond for 50% of the replacement cost for the third through tenth years that the treatment works is in operation.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 895 Community Meetings
SB 1944 – HB 1858 Enacts new subdivisions at 8-44-108(a) to define “community meeting” and “local governing body.” Enacts a new subsection at 8-44-108 to authorize local governing bodies to allow electronic participation in community meetings. Provides certain requirements for participation, notice, and recording. Prohibits any votes being taken during these meetings.
Effective May 5, 2026.
Public Chapter 897 Investigation By County Medical Examiner
SB 2088 - HB 2013 Amends 38-7-109. "Mass shooting" means: (1) A shooting resulting in four or more individuals sustaining an injury; or (2) A shooting in which a reasonable person would conclude that the decedent attempted to kill four or more individuals.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 906 Appropriations for Debt Service
SB 2454 – HB 2511 Amends 9-4-5107(a) to include regional airport authorities and metropolitan airport authorities in the list of entities for whom appropriations for debt service obligations are to extend for an indefinite period.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 911 Joint Airport Boards
SB 1611 – HB 1691 Enacts a new subsection at 42-5-202 to provide a joint board established by two municipalities and two counties pursuant to an interlocal agreement is vested with all the powers, rights, duties, and privileges of a joint board formed under Title 42, Chapter 5 and with all the powers, rights, duties, and privileges of a regional airport authority formed under Title 42, Chapter 3. Also provides that the governance of the board, including terms of office of the members and the composition of the board, will be as set forth in the interlocal agreement.
Effective May 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 915 Tax Increment Financing
SB 1760 – HB 1892 Enacts a new subdivision at 9-23-102 and a new section at Title 9, Chapter 23, relative to taxpayer agreements and taxpayer agreement liens.
Effective May 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 938 Biological Sex
SB 936 – HB 1271 Amends Title 4, Chapter 1, Part 4 to add a new section that provides that no later than July 1, 2027, local governments shall revise any rule or policy to state that there are only two sexes, a biological male or biological female. Local governments are prohibited from adopting or enacting a rule that define sex or gender in different way. A resident in that jurisdiction that believes the local government is not in compliance with this law may file a complaint in chancery court. If the court finds that the local government is not in compliance with the law, it may order the local government to comply with this law or take another action within the scope of the jurisdiction to ensure compliance. If the local government does not comply with the court’s order within 90 days, the local government becomes ineligible for grants from the department of economic and community development until the local government comes in compliance with the law. A local government is not noncompliant with this law simply for accepting a valid birth certificate, or other lawfully issued form of identification.
Effective May 7, 2026.
Public Chapter 958 Building Inspections
SB 1784 – HB 1760 Amends 68-120-101(k)(3)(B) to provide that a third-party inspector must only conduct subsequent inspections related to the inspection category for which the third-party inspector was initially engaged.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 978 Metropolitan and Regional Airport Authorities
SB 2473 – HB 2507 Amends 42-4-105, 42-3-104, and 42-3-108 to revise the manner in which metropolitan and regional airport authority boards are constituted.
For purposes of appointing commissioners to the new airport authority boards, this act takes effect May 19, 2026. For all other purposes, including the vacation and reconstitution of any board, this act takes effect July 1, 2026, the public welfare requiring it.
Public Chapter 979 Local Disaster Displacement Tax Relief Act
SB 2504 - HB 2210 Amends Section 58-2-110. Notwithstanding another law to the contrary a county that has declared a state of local emergency or is subject to a state of emergency or disaster declaration under 58-2-107 is authorized to provide tax relief from hotel occupancy and additional privilege taxes levied pursuant to Title 67, Chapter 4, Part 14; Title 7, Chapter 4, Part 1; Title 7, Chapter 4, Part 2; or a private act for county residents displaced from their homes in the event of a declared emergency or disaster.
Relief is subject to the following: (1) Authorization for tax relief requires either a resolution from the county legislative body or an executive order from the county executive authorizing the relief; (2) A county may authorize relief in the form of a waiver at the point of sale or reimbursement for taxes paid, in consultation with the Department of Revenue in the case of such taxes collected from short-term rental unit marketplaces pursuant to Title 67, Chapter 4, Part 15, and the authorized collector in the case of such taxes collected from hotel operators pursuant to Title 67, Chapter 4, Part 14; Title 7, Chapter 4, Part 1; Title 7, Chapter 4, Part 2; or a private act; (3) A county must set a duration for the period of authorized relief, not to exceed fourteen days, which may include a defined recovery period immediately following the active emergency period; (4) A county may authorize reimbursement for taxes paid by a resident for lodging in an adjoining county if there is limited vacancy within the county; (5) A county must establish a process and procedures.
Effective May 19, 2026.
Public Chapter 980 TN Childcare Red Tape Reduction Act
SB 2509 – HB 2413 Enacts a new section at Title 71, Chapter 3, Part 5 to require local governments to establish an expedited review process for all childcare agency permit applications. Requires permit applications be assigned for review within five business days of receipt of a completed application. Requires local governments to issue a final permit decision within 90 days of receiving a completed application unless the applicant agrees to an extension. Prohibits local fire departments or marshals from conducting separate or additional fire safety inspections. Prohibits local governments from imposing additional fire safety requirements unless certain conditions are met. Does not prohibit enforcement of generally applicable building codes. Provides specific zoning regulations applicable to childcare agencies, notwithstanding local ordinances.
For the purpose of promulgating rules, this act takes effect May 19, 2026. For all other purposes, this act takes effect July 1, 2026, the public welfare requiring it, and applies to all applications submitted on or after that date.
Public Chapter 984 Convention Center Authorities
SB 2613 – HB 2320 Amends numerous sections beginning at 7-89-101 to add agricultural exposition authorities to the convention center authority act. Grants the same powers to agricultural exposition authorities as convention center authorities.
Effective May 19, 2026.
Public Chapter 985 Director of Accounts and Budget
SB 2614 - HB 2102 Amends 5-1-402. Notwithstanding any provision or law to the contrary, a county legislative body may establish the compensation level for the director of accounts and budget when they operate under the County Purchasing Law of 1957, compiled in Chapter 14, Part 1 of Title 5.
Effective May 19, 2026.
Public Chapter 986 Investments and Pension Plans
SB 2641 – HB 2476 Amends 9-4-1401, 9-4-1405, and 9-4-1406 relative to investments and additional requirements for pension plans, including those established and maintained by a political subdivision.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 987 Industrial Development Corporations
SB 2646 – HB 1878 Amends 7-53-103 to authorize IDBs to merge with another IDC in the same manner as public benefit corporations under Title 48, Chapter 61. Amends 7-53-305(a)(2)(A) to authorize IDBs to negotiate and enter into PILOTs for tax-credit housing projects without delegation from the legislative body (unless there is a blanket requirement that PILOT agreements be approved by the body) as long as the chief executive officer of each affected jurisdiction executes a letter supporting the project. Amends 7-53-305(b)(1)(A) to provide that if a PILOT agreement would result in an affected taxing jurisdiction receiving less taxes than would otherwise be payable, then the IDB must provide notice to the chief executive officer of each affected taxing jurisdiction and cannot enter into the PILOT unless the chief executive officers of the affected taxing jurisdictions either provide a written response that they do not object to the agreement or that the agreement must be approved by the legislative body of the taxing jurisdiction. If the chief executive officer fails to respond within ten days of receipt of the notice, the IDB may proceed with the agreement. The IDB cannot enter into the agreement if the affected legislative bodies do not approve the agreement. Also amends 7-53-305(g)(1)(C) related to Shelby County.
Effective May 19, 2026.
Public Chapter 1000 Highway Noise Studies
SB 2027 – HB 2009 Enacts a new section at Title 54, Chapter 1, Part 1, to authorize county legislative bodies, by resolution, to request TDOT conduct a highway traffic noise study for certain residential properties. Requires the county to pay the cost of the study.
Effective May 19, 2026.
Public Chapter 1018 Central Business District Improvement Act
SB 2442 – HB 2258 Amends 7-84-503(8) to revise the definition of “municipality” to include counties.
Effective May 19, 2026.
Public Chapter 1020 Adult-Oriented Establishments
SB 2481 – HB 2314 Enacts new subsections at 7-51-1104 to require adult-oriented establishments to post signs at each entrance stating the following: “Attention: By engaging in this type of entertainment, you may be contributing to an increase in domestic assault, rape or sexual assault, and human trafficking."
Effective May 19, 2026.
Public Chapter 1025 Cost of Autopsy
SB 2388 - HB 2369 Amends 38-7-106 and 109. In any case where an autopsy is requested by a municipality or municipal law enforcement agency, the cost of the autopsy must be paid by the municipality, unless the cost is paid by the state.
Effective May 19, 2026.
Public Chapter 1028 Infrastructure Development
SB 2191 – HB 2386 Enacts a new part at Title 7, Chapter 51, to provide for cost-sharing agreements for offsite public infrastructure improvements.
Effective May 19, 2026.
Public Chapter 1037 Workforce Housing
SB 2410 – HB 2509 Enacts a new section at Title 13, Chapter 23, Part 1, to establish the community workforce housing innovation pilot program. Amends 48-101-312 and 7-53-305 to authorize corporations to acquire and lease workforce housing projects.
Effective May 21, 2026, for rulemaking purposes and effective July 1, 2026, for all other purposes.
Public Chapter 1044 Development Approval Timelines/Release of Surety
SB 2237 – HB 2552 Enacts a new section at Title 7, Chapter 51, Part 22, to establish timelines for local government review of development applications, plans, and inspections. Provides a timeline and limits applicable to written reports of deficiencies issued by local governments. Also enacts a new chapter at Title 7, setting out a procedure for local governments to use in cases where a contractor or developer engages a professional engineer to determine whether the contractor or developer has completed all work required under a contract with the local government and any related surety should be released.
Effective January 1, 2027.
Public Chapter 1048 Executive Sessions for Certain Interviews
SB 2162 – HB 2616 Amends 8-44-102 to authorize governing bodies to conduct executive sessions for the purpose of interviewing persons for “director-level” staff positions. Provides that all deliberations and voting must occur in an open, publicly noticed meeting. Also sets out provisions on confidentiality of application materials.
Effective May 21, 2026.
Public Chapter 1052 Riley Gaines Women's Safety and Protection Act
SB 468 - HB 571 Amends Title 68. Creates the "Women's Safety and Protection Act," which clarifies and reconciles the meaning of sex, female, male, and related terms in state law to provide protections for women and girls against sexual assault, harassment, and violence in correctional facilities, juvenile detention facilities, domestic violence shelters, dormitories, and restrooms, or where women have been traditionally afforded safety and protection from acts of abuse committed by biological men.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1065 Local Historical Boards
SB 1490 – HB 1493 Enacts a new section at Title 4, Chapter 11, Part 1, to authorize local historical boards to contract with farmers to farm crops and harvest hay on land that is part of a historical site.
Effective May 22, 2026.
Public Chapter 1073 Sober Living Homes
SB 1610 – HB 2196 Amends 7-51-2601(3) to include Putnam County in the definition of “local government” for purposes of regulating sober living homes.
Effective May 22, 2026.
Public Chapter 1079 Tourism and Convention Center Funding
SB 1672 – HB 2085 Enacts a new section at Title 4, Chapter 3, Part 3, to create a joint capital tourism board. Amends various sections in Title 7 and Title 67 relative to convention center funding.
Effective May 22, 2026, for purposes of appointing members to the joint capital tourism board and effective July 1, 2026, for all other purposes.
Public Chapter 1085 Regulation of Shopping Carts
SB 1728 – HB 1514 Enacts a new section at Title 5, Chapter 1, Part 1, and Title 6, Chapter 54, Part 1, to prohibit local governments from enacting regulations regulating shopping carts.
Effective May 22, 2026.
Public Chapter 1089 Infrastructure Development Districts
SB 1766 – HB 1681 Amends various sections at Title 7, Chapter 84 relative to infrastructure development districts.
Effective May 22, 2026.
Public Chapter 1090 Extraterritorial Zoning
SB 1771 – HB 1720 Enacts a new section at Title 13, Chapter 7, Part 3, to authorize county legislative bodies, by majority vote, to prohibit municipalities from exercising jurisdiction over zoning outside of their municipal boundaries. Provides that this provision only applies to counties with populations of less than 341,500 according to the 2020 or subsequent census. Also provides that if a county opts into this section, persons submitting a plat, site plan, or building permit application for property outside municipal boundaries but within the urban growth boundary must also submit a declaration of whether the person seeks to have the property annexed. The declaration is recorded with the register of deeds. If the person wishes to be annexed, the municipal standards will apply.
Effective May 22, 2026.
Public Chapter 1101 Essential Governmental Employee Housing Act
SB 1849 – HB 1796 Enacts a new Chapter at Title 9, to authorize local governments to acquire, own, develop, lease, operate, and maintain essential housing developments to provide housing for essential employees.
Effective May 22, 2026.
Public Chapter 1106 Immigration
SB 1915 - HB 1710 Amends numerous provision in Title 4, Chapter 58, Part 1 relative to verifying citizenship. Provides that local governments must verify that each applicant for a public benefit who is eighteen years of age or older is lawfully present in the United States. Requires local governments to report individuals who are not lawfully present to the centralized immigration enforcement division within the department of safety (and makes it a crime for an employee or official to intentionally fail to report).
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1125 Hotel/Motel Tax and Tourism
SB 2283 – HB 2119 Amends 67-4-1401 to define destination marketing organization to mean a nonprofit or government entity who is 1) responsible for attracting tourists through tourism promotion or tourism promotion; 2) operates on a yearly basis; and 3) uses a dedicated marketing budget supported by a consistent funding source.
Amends 67-4-1403(a) by adding a new subdivision that provides that revenue received by a county that is used to fund a destination marketing entity must be released to the entity no later than 120 days after the county approves the final budget.
Effective May 22, 2026.
Public Chapter 1130 Neighborhood Preservation and Local Land Bank
SB 2367 – HB 2328 Amends 13-6-105 to add Tipton County to the Neighborhood Preservation Act. Also amends 13-30-103 to add Montgomery County to the Local Land Bank Program.
Effective May 22, 2026.
Public Chapter 1137 TACIR Study on Public Notices
SB 2450 – HB 2114 TACIR will conduct a study to determine if newspaper notices remain the most efficient and effective manner for governments to provide information.
Effective May 22, 2026.
- COURTS & COURT CLERKS
Public Chapter 582 Victim’s Rights - Address Confidentiality Program
SB 1640 - HB 1552 Amends 40-38-601, 603, 604. Adds that a person who by law is required to be registered under the registry of persistent domestic violence offenders is prohibited from participating in the address confidentiality program.
Effective March 6, 2026.
Public Chapter 589 Fiduciary Accounting
SB 1636 - HB 1766 Amends 34-1-111 to provide that the fiduciary’s accounting must contain a statement concerning the physical or mental condition of the person with a disability and the date of the fiduciary’s last contact with the person with a disability. The statement must also advise the court whether the condition of the respondent continues to require the fiduciary’s services without disclosing medical information required to be kept confidential.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 594 Breastfeeding Mothers
SB 1893 - HB 1715 Amends 22-1-103 to provide that a mother who is breastfeeding a child is excused from jury service with a supporting medical statement submitted to the jury coordinator.
Effective March 18, 2026.
Public Chapter 604 Bail - Release on Recognizance or Unsecured Bond
SB 218 - HB 33 Amends 40-11-115. Adds there is a presumption that a defendant should not be released on the defendant's personal recognizance if the defendant is charged with a felony offense that involved the use or display of a firearm or resulted in the serious bodily injury or death of the victim. The terms "firearm" and "serious bodily injury" mean the same as defined in 39-11-106. If a magistrate or other official authorized to admit a defendant to bail determines that the presumption established has been rebutted, then the magistrate or such official must include in the bail order written findings for each factor listed in subsection 40-11-115 (b).
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 611 Zero to Three Court Programs
SB 1605 - HB 2083 Amends 37-1-902 to expand the goals of zero to three court programs to cases involving children five years of age or younger.
Effective March 25, 2026.
Public Chapter 616 Trusts
SB 1910 - HB 2454 Amends numerous provisions relative to wills and trusts. Provides that confidential information related to trusts may be redacted or filed under seal without a prior court order if certain conditions are met.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 627 Electronic Monitoring Indigency Fund
SB 1845 - HB 1748 Amends 55-10-419 to provide that a person ordered to use an ignition interlock device shall provide the selected provider and the clerk of the court that has jurisdiction over the person with: (i) Documentation demonstrating that the person is either qualified to receive or is receiving funds on the date the person was ordered to use the device from at least one (1) of the sources listed in subdivision (h)(4) of 55-10-419; and (ii) An authorization and consent for the state treasurer to obtain or access documentation or information from state or federal agencies verifying that the person is either qualified to receive or is receiving funds on the date the person was ordered to use the device from at least one (1) of the sources listed in subdivision (h)(4).
In addition to providing the information in subdivision (j)(1), providers shall also provide: (i) The state treasurer with the documentation and information referenced above for persons ordered to use an ignition interlock device; and (ii) The respective local government with the affidavit of indigency, and other information considered by the court to determine whether the person is indigent, for a person ordered to use an alternative device.
Provides that in order to verify that a person is receiving or is eligible to receive funds from at least one (1) of the sources listed in subdivision (h)(4), the state treasurer is authorized to enter into memoranda of understanding with appropriate state agencies. The appropriate state agencies, as identified by the state treasurer, shall fully cooperate with the exchange of documentation or information, as permitted by applicable laws and rules.
Effective March 26, 2026.
Public Chapter 681 Judicial Redistricting
SB 166 - HB 181 Amends 16-2-522 to extend the deadlines related to judicial redistricting.
Effective April 16, 2026.
Public Chapter 719 Expungement of Pardoned Individuals
SB 2197 - HB 2452 Amends 40-32-107 and 108 to expand the type of convictions a court may approve to be expunged for a person who has been pardoned.
Effective April 14, 2026.
Public Chapter 743 Litigation and Criminal Injuries Tax Reporting
SB 1099 - HB 878 Amends 40-24-107 to provide that on a quarterly basis, at the request of the state treasurer, clerks shall report the following to the commissioner of revenue and the state treasurer in such a manner as may be prescribed by the commissioner of revenue or the state treasurer, for persons subject to the imposition of a privilege tax pursuant to 40-24-107: (A) The amount of privilege tax collected in the aggregate for the quarter; (B) The amount of privilege tax remitted to the department of revenue in the aggregate for the quarter; and (C) On a per case basis: (i) The amount of privilege tax suspended, released, waived, remitted, or not collected; and (ii) The reason for the privilege tax suspension, release, waiver, remittance, or failure to collect the privilege tax, including, but not limited to, whether the collection of the tax was waived by a court order or the court clerk.
Provides that at the request of the state treasurer, clerks shall submit the following to the state treasurer relative to the privilege tax collected under 40-24-107: (A) A copy of the court's written waiver policy or procedure, if any; (B) A description of how and with what frequency defendants are notified of the obligation to pay the privilege tax, including, but not limited to, a copy of the initial and follow-up communications with the defendant and a copy of the court's written policy or procedure for notifying defendants; (C) A description of the use of a collection agency or other third-party providers to collect unpaid privilege taxes, including, but not limited to, the number of defendants who have had their unpaid privilege tax sent to a collection agency with the unpaid amounts on a per defendant basis; (D) A description of other privilege tax collection efforts used by the courts or court clerks, including, but not limited to, promissory notes or payment plans; (E) A description of the court clerk's efforts in complying with 40-24-107(b); and (F) Any other information or documentation requested by the state treasurer.
Amends 67-4-605 to provide that on a quarterly basis, at the request of the state treasurer, a clerk of the court shall report the following to the commissioner of revenue and the state treasurer in such a manner as may be prescribed by the commissioner of revenue or the state treasurer, for persons subject to the imposition of a privilege tax pursuant to 67-4-602: (1) The amount of privilege tax collected in the aggregate for the quarter; (2) The amount of privilege tax remitted to the department of revenue in the aggregate for the quarter; and (3) On a per case basis: (A) The amount of privilege tax suspended, released, waived, remitted, or not collected; and (B) The reason for the privilege tax suspension, release, waiver, remittance, or failure to collect the privilege tax, including, but not limited to, whether the collection of the tax was waived by a court order or the court clerk.
Provides that at the request of the state treasurer, a clerk of the court shall submit the following to the state treasurer relative to the privilege tax collected under this Part 6 of Title 67, Chapter 4: (1) A copy of the court's written waiver policy or procedure, if any; (2) A description of how and with what frequency defendants are notified of the obligation to pay the privilege tax, including, but not limited to, a copy of the initial and follow-up communications with the defendant and a copy of the court's written policy or procedure for notifying defendants; (3) A description of the use of a collection agency or other third-party providers to collect unpaid privilege taxes, including, but not limited to, the number of defendants who have had their unpaid privilege tax sent to a collection agency with the unpaid amounts on a per defendant basis; (4) A description of other privilege tax collection efforts used by the courts or court clerks, including, but not limited to, promissory notes or payment plans; and (5) Any other information or documentation requested by the state treasurer.
Clarifies that the existing provision providing that court clerks are liable for uncollected amounts per 67-4-605 applies to the clerks listed in 67-4-604.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 805 Juvenile Monthly Reporting
SB 2219 - HB 2352 Amends 37-1-187 to expand the information reported by the juvenile court clerk or staff monthly to the AOC to also include each new dependency and neglect case, including for each child named in the petition: (A) The date the case was filed or opened; (B) The referring agency or person filing the petition; (C) The statutory allegations in the petition; (D) The child's unique child ID number, which may be the same number used if the child has a delinquent or unruly case; (E) The unique case or docket number, followed by -01, -02, -03 for each child named in the petition; and (F) The child's name, date of birth, race, sex, ethnicity, and social security number; Also, for each case reported pursuant to the above, the following information, as applicable, along with the unique case or docket number: (A) The beginning and ending date and type of out-of-home placement; (B) The beginning and ending date of a trial home placement; (C) The date the child was adjudicated a dependent and neglected child or the date the case was dismissed or transferred to another court; (D) For a child in the custody of the department of children's services, the permanency goal achieved or the reason for not achieving permanency; (E) The date of case closure; and (F) The beginning and ending date of an extension of foster care.
Effective January 1, 2027.
Public Chapter 830 Underage Tobacco Violations
SB 1740 - HB 1679 Amends 39-17-1505 to expand the dispositions allowed when a person under 21 is found to have unlawfully purchased, possessed, accepted receipt of, or presented fraudulent proof of age to purchase tobacco, smoking hemp, a vapor product, or a smokeless nicotine product.
Effective April 16, 2026.
Public Chapter 835 Actions Against the State or Charter Amendment
SB 1858 - HB 2184 Amends 20-18-101, 102 and 105 to make multiple changes regarding certain civil actions brought against the state or relative to the legality of a charter amendment requiring a three-judge panel. Removes provision that provides that venue is in Sumner County when the plaintiff is not a resident.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 882 Criminal Proceedings Notification System
SB 2210 - HB 2221 Amends 40-38-507. Adds that the clerks of the criminal courts shall provide the Tennessee Sheriffs' Association with all court data necessary for the administration of the criminal proceedings notification system required by this section.
Effective April 27, 2026.
Public Chapter 896 Bond Revocation
SB 1945 - HB 1980 Amends 40-11-141 to provide that if after the defendant is released upon personal recognizance, an unsecured personal appearance bond, or any other bond approved by the court, the defendant violates a condition of release, is charged with an offense committed during the defendant's release, or engages in conduct which results in the obstruction of the orderly and expeditious progress of the trial or other proceedings, then the court may, upon the filing of a written order and notice of hearing, temporarily revoke the defendant's bond and order the defendant held without bail for no more than ten (10) days pending a bail revocation hearing. Following a bail revocation hearing, if the court finds that the defendant has violated a condition of bond, then the court may permanently revoke the defendant's bond and order the defendant held without bail pending trial or without release during trial.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 916 Liability of State for Costs or Fees
SB 1804 - HB 1986 Amends 40-25-129(a)(3). Adds that a county incurring expenses pursuant to a criminal prosecution under this subdivision (a)(3) shall provide an invoice of the expenses imposed on the county to the Department of Correction. Within sixty (60) days of receiving an invoice pursuant to this subdivision (a)(3)(C), the department shall pay the amount of the invoiced expenses permitted by law to the county.
Effective May 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 921 Domestic Offender Registry (Savanna’s Law)
SB 1726 - HB 2567 Amends 40-39-402 to make numerous changes to the persistent domestic violence offender registry.
Provides that if a court orders a defendant to register, then the court clerk shall forward to the TBI a copy of the final judgment. The clerk shall forward the information to the TBI within seven (7) days from the date the clerk receives a final judgment signed by the judge.
Provides that notwithstanding 40-35-111 and in addition to any other punishment that may be imposed for a conviction of the offense, a defendant required to register must be assessed a registration fee in the amount of one hundred fifty dollars ($150), which must be paid to the clerk of the court at the time of conviction who shall: (1) Retain fifty dollars ($50.00) of the fee for the administration of Savanna’s Law, which must be reserved for the purposes authorized by Savanna’s Law at the end of each fiscal year; and (2) Remit one hundred dollars ($100) of the fee to the department of finance and administration's office of criminal justice programs for the purpose of administering grants to fund family violence prevention and intervention services.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 933 Bail
SB 900 - HB 920 Amends 40-11-115 (d). Prohibits a defendant being released on the defendant's personal recognizance or upon execution of an unsecured bond if the defendant is charged with any of the following offenses: (1) A Class A felony; (2) A Class B felony; (3) Aggravated assault; (4) Aggravated assault against a law enforcement officer or first responder; or (5) Domestic assault if the violation is a felony offense.
Adds that in determining the amount of bail required for a defendant charged with an above offense there is a rebuttable presumption that bail must be set at ten thousand dollars ($10,000) or more to reasonably ensure the appearance of the defendant as required and the safety of the community. In order to rebut the presumption, the court must make specific findings on why such bail is not required to reasonably ensure the appearance of the defendant as required and the safety of the community. The findings must be reduced to writing and included in the court's order establishing bail.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 941 Bail
SB 1708 - HB 1450 Amends Title 40, Chapter 11, Part 1. Provides that an entity, however organized, shall not secure the release of a defendant unless specifically authorized under this chapter. An entity, other than the defendant, a member of the defendant's family, the defendant's legal guardian, the defendant's employer, or a professional bondsman authorized under 40-11-124, seeking to secure the release of a defendant must be approved in accordance with 40-11-123 for each bond the entity seeks to secure. An entity, other than the defendant, a member of the defendant's family, the defendant's legal guardian, the defendant's employer, or a professional bondsman authorized under 40-11-124, shall not: (1) Post security for a single defendant more than one time per calendar year; or (2) Post security in an amount of more than five thousand dollars ($5,000) for each defendant per calendar year.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 953 Court Cooperation with Immigration
SB 1952 - HB 1707 Amends Title 16, Chapter 1 to provide that each court must cooperate with the United States department of homeland security and federal immigration authorities acting in the enforcement of federal immigration law. Provides that a judge who obstructs may be removed for judicial misconduct pursuant to current removal procedures. Provides that the law will terminate on February 1, 2029.
Effective May 7, 2026.
Public Chapter 993 Driver Courses for Traffic Offenses
SB 2114 - HB 1891 Amends 55-10-207(f). In addition to the submission of the fine and costs in lieu of appearing in court, a person who is charged with speeding may register for a department-approved driver education course. Department-approved driver education courses must be made available online via the department's website. In accordance with 55-8-207, if the person successfully completes the course within ninety days of the conviction, the person shall have the points charged to the person's driving record for the speeding conviction removed; provided, that five points is the maximum number of points that may be removed from the person's driving record. A provider of a department-approved driver education course shall provide the department, through the department's website, certificates of completion within thirty days of course completion. A provider of a department-approved driver education course shall provide information to each person who successfully completes the course regarding the department's process for the removal of points charged to the person's driving record.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1017 Criminal Magistrates
SB 2025 - HB 2251 Enacts a new Part 3 in Title 40, Chapter 5 to create a pilot project to provide for criminal magistrates in the ten (10) counties in which the criminal courts experience the highest judicial caseload. Provides that by December 1, 2026, the AOC must notify the legislative body of each of the ten (10) counties that are eligible to participate in the pilot project. Upon being notified of eligibility, the legislative body of an eligible county may, by ordinance, create the position of criminal magistrate within the county. The criminal magistrate must be compensated from the general fund of the county in an amount to be determined by the majority of the elected judges of the county with criminal jurisdiction and subject to the approval of the legislative body.
Effective May 19, 2026.
Public Chapter 1025 Probation
SB 2388 - HB 2369 Amends 40-35-303(i)(1). Increases to $60.00, the maximum amount a defendant in a misdemeanor case must pay per month as part payment of expenses incurred by the agency, department, program, group or association in supervising the defendant. The payment shall be made to the clerk of the court in which proceedings against the defendant were pending.
Amends 40-35-313(a)(1)(A). Increases to $60.00, the maximum amount a qualified defendant in a deferred misdemeanor case must pay per month as part payment of expenses incurred by the agency, department, program, group or association in supervising the defendant. The payments shall be made to the clerk of the court in which proceedings against the defendant were pending.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1026 Bail
SB 2161 - HB 2374 Amends 40-11-139(d)(1). If a court issues a bench warrant or a capias due to a defendant's failure to appear on a felony that is violent or sexual in nature as determined by the court, then the defendant shall be placed on any available state or federal list or database as a fugitive from justice, including the National Crime Information Center.
Amends 40-11-139(d)(3). The court may relieve the surety of liability for an undertaking if the defendant has not been placed on the available state or federal list or database within five business days of the entering agency's receipt of the bench warrant or capias.
Effective May 19, 2026.
Public Chapter 1033 Fraud and Economic Crimes Funds for DA
SB 2039 - HB 2491 Enacts a new section in Title 40, Chapter 3, Part 2 relative to DA funding. Provides that upon the enactment of the cost authorized by 40-3-106, the fees and assessments established under Part 2 for fraud and economic crimes must not be enforced within that county. Any existing funds collected under Part 2 that are in the possession, custody, or control of a district attorney general must be held and retained by the district attorney general until the balance of the funds collected pursuant to 40-3-106 equals or exceeds the balance of the fraud and economic crimes prosecution funds deposited into the account established by 40-3-207, at which time the balance of the funds deposited into the account established by 40-3-207 must revert to and be remitted back to the county government of original assessment and collection.
Effective May 21, 2026.
Public Chapter 1051 Pretrial Release/Probation Monitoring Devices
SB 254 - HB 489 Amends 40-11-118 to provide that a defendant who is ordered to wear a transdermal monitoring device or alternative device as a condition of pretrial release, and who has not been determined by the court to be indigent, is responsible for the payment of all fees associated with the installation, monitoring, maintenance, and operation of the device. A defendant's failure to make a payment within five (5) days after the due date constitutes nonpayment and may result in termination of device monitoring. If a defendant fails to pay the costs associated with operating the defendant's transdermal monitoring device or alternative device, then the qualified electronic monitoring provider or the government agency providing electronic monitoring services of defendants must notify the court and the defendant in writing within five (5) days of the arrearage. The court shall, within ten (10) days of receiving the qualified electronic monitoring provider's or government agency's notice to the court, set a show cause hearing to be held within thirty (30) days.
The clerk of the court shall notify the defendant and the qualified electronic monitoring provider, or the government agency providing electronic monitoring services, of the date and time of the show cause hearing.
The qualified electronic monitoring provider, or the government agency providing electronic monitoring services, shall not discontinue the defendant's monitoring before the show cause hearing has been held.
Amends 40-35-303 to provide that a defendant who is ordered to wear a transdermal monitoring device or alternative device as a condition of probation, and who has not been determined by the court to be indigent, is responsible for payment of all fees associated with the installation, monitoring maintenance, and operation of the device. A defendant's failure to make a payment within five (5) days after the due date constitutes nonpayment. If a defendant fails to pay the costs associated with operating the defendant's transdermal monitoring device or alternative device, then the qualified electronic monitoring provider, or the government agency providing electronic monitoring services, must provide written notice of the arrearage to: (i) The supervising probation officer or supervising agency; and (ii) The defendant. The notice required must be provided within three (3) business days of the arrearage. If the defendant does not pay the arrearage within five (5) days of the issuance of the notice then the qualified electronic monitoring provider, or the government agency providing electronic monitoring services, may suspend or terminate monitoring services for the defendant after providing notice of the pending suspension or termination to the supervising probation officer. If monitoring services are suspended or terminated due to nonpayment, then the supervising probation officer may take any action authorized by law for violation of a condition of probation. A qualified electronic monitoring provider, or a government agency providing monitoring services, is not required to provide monitoring services without compensation, and this subsection does not require a provider to subsidize monitoring services ordered by the court.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1061 Recovery Court Renewal Act
SB 1232 - HB 1346 Amends 40-32-107(e) relative to expungement, Provides that an "eligible petitioner" means a person who: (A) Is seeking expunction of an offense that: (i) Is eligible for expunction under subdivision (a)(1); and (ii) Occurred at least ten (10) years after the person's conviction for an offense under 55-10-401; (B) Has fulfilled all requirements of the sentence imposed by the court for the offense the person is seeking to expunge, including: (i) Payment of all fines, restitution, court costs, and other assessments for the offense; (ii) Completion of any term of imprisonment or probation for the offense; and (iii) Meeting all conditions of supervised or unsupervised release for the offense; (C) Has successfully completed a certified recovery court program established under Title 16; (D) Has not previously been granted expunction under subsection (a), subsection (b), subsection (c), or this subsection (e) for another criminal offense; and (E) Has not been convicted of an offense under 55-10-401 more than one (1) time. Provides that a person seeking expunction pursuant to this subsection (e) shall petition the court pursuant to 40-32-108. Provides a court shall not grant an expunction under this subsection (e) if the offense the person is seeking to expunge involves a motor vehicle and the use of alcohol or a controlled substance, including, but not limited to, a violation of 55-10-401.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1105 Drug Courts
SB 1909 - HB 1471 Amends 16-22-103 to allow additional defendants to participate in drug court programs (by amending the definition of who is a violent offender).
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1115 Victims Assessment Fee
SB 2085 - HB 2023 Amends 40-24-109 to increase the amount of the local option victims assistance assessment fee from $45 to $125.
Effective May 22, 2026.
Public Chapter 1118 Lifetime Protection Order
SB 2145 - HB 1900 Amends 36-3-627 to authorize a victim to file a petition for a lifetime order of protection against an offender who was convicted of a felony offense committed in another state that would constitute a felony assaultive offense, a criminal homicide offense, a kidnapping or false imprisonment offense, or a sexual offense if committed in this state. If an offense in a jurisdiction other than this state is not identified as one of those offenses, then it must be considered to be such an offense if the elements of the offense are the same as the elements of the comparable offense in this state.
Effective March 22, 2026.
- EDUCATION
Public Chapter 533 Interscholastic Athletics
SB 16 - HB 25 Amends Title 49, Chapter 2 by adding a new part relative to interscholastic athletics. Provides that a middle or high school student who transfers from one member school to another is immediately eligible to participate in interscholastic athletics at the new member school if it is the student’s first transfer in middle school or high school, as applicable, and the transfer occurs in the summer. The immediate eligibility does not apply to a transfer that occurs during the school year or to a second or subsequent transfer at the middle or high school level.
Public schools, including public charter schools, shall not use public funds to join or maintain membership in an association that regulates interscholastic athletics unless association’s governing board complies with the open meetings laws. An association that regulates interscholastic athletics may conduct a closed meeting, or close a portion of an otherwise open meeting, if a relevant privacy law, privilege, or other confidential information must be discussed.
If a student is placed in foster care and wants to participate in school sports, then the public school or charter school (after obtaining consent from the student’s parent or legal guardian) must notify the association of the student’s placement in foster care. The notification must be made in accordance with state and federal privacy laws.
Any association that establishes and enforces bylaws or rules for interscholastic sports competition for public secondary schools is subject to annual audit by the comptroller of the treasury. The association shall bear the costs of any audit prepared.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 655 Education Freedom Act – Teacher Bonuses
SB 1891 - HB 1927 Amends Section 4 of Chapter 7 of the First Extraordinary Session of 2025 (Education Freedom Act).
Subject to appropriation, Section 4 of the Education Freedom Act gives a one-time $2,000 bonus to every K–12 teacher working in a public school or public charter school during the 2024–2025 school year when certain requirements are met.
Public Chapter 655 provides that subject to appropriation, if a public school or public charter school has not received bonus funding pursuant to section 4 of the Education Freedom Act, it must:
- Approve a resolution stating it wants to participate in the program, and
- Send the resolution to the department within 21 days of the effective date of the Act (April 21, 2026).
If the above requirements are completed on time, then the department will provide a one-time, $2,000 bonus to each eligible teacher that worked during the 2024-2025 school year.
Effective April 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 656 School Transportation
SB 1951 - HB 1856 Amends 49-6-2109 to provide that a school bus that is used exclusively to transport students from school to an after-school program may be used for 20 years or 300,000 miles of recorded travel, whichever occurs later. After the bus reaches 20 years of age or 300,000 miles, the bus may continue to be operated for the remainder of school year if all safety requirements are met. At the end of school year, the owner must discontinue the use of or replace the bus. The owner of the bus must notify the department of safety by certified mail that the bus has reached 20 years of age or 300,000 miles.
A school bus that is in use for more than 15 years must be inspected by the commissioner or commissioner’s designee at least twice annually.
Effective March 27, 2026.
Public Chapter 893 Interscholastic Athletic Participation
SB 1822 – HB 1785 Amends Title 49, Chapter 50, Part 8 by adding a new section that provides that if a public school that is part of an LEA is serving students in grades six through twelve and is a member of an association that regulates interscholastic athletic competition, then the LEA shall permit a student to participate in interscholastic athletics who:
- Is enrolled in a private school that is not a member of the association and meets other requirements;
- Satisfies the requirements of the association; and
- Resides within the geographic boundaries of the LEA.
Students in private schools may only participate in interscholastic athletics at public schools as provided in this section if the private school does offer the program at the private school.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 924 Display of Historical Documents
SB 924 – HB 47 Amends Title 49, Chapter 6, Part 20 to add a new section that allows a LEA or public charter school to display the Ten Commandments, the first sentence of the paragraph of the preamble to the Declaration of Independence, and the preamble to the United States Constitution in a prominent location in a school building so students can learn about the documents’ historical significance. Fraternal and other organizations are encouraged to donate the funds and materials for the displays. Text size of the font of the displays shall be at least 26-point, and the displays shall be easy for students to read.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 963 Education Freedom Act Changes
SB 2247 – HB 2532 Amends various sections of Title 49.
Amends 49-6-3504 to provide that the department will provide up to 35,000 scholarships to eligible students in the 2026-2027 school year.
Amends 49-3-108(i) to provide:
- For 2026-2027 school year, if the LEAs TISA is less than it was for the previous school year, and the LEA experienced disenrollment, then the department will allocate the difference between LEAs TISA current school year and the previous school year.
- For 2027-2028 and 2028-2029 school years, if the LEAs TISA allocation is less than it was in the 2025-2026 school year and the LEA experienced disenrollment then the department will allocate funds in the amount of the average per pupil state funds received by the LEA in the immediate previous school year for each student that disenrolled if the student that disenrolled provided their social security number at the time of enrollment.
- To receive additional funds, the LEA must report the reason for the disenrollment by each non-virtual student in the previous school year, regardless of whether the student provided a social security number at the time of enrollment.
- Any additional funds received by the LEA must not exceed the difference between the LEAs TISA allocation for the current year and the 2025-2026 school year.
- Beginning in the 2029-2030 school year, LEAs may only receive additional funding for students that have disenrolled and received an education freedom scholarship.
- Additional funds received by the LEA must not exceed the difference between the LEAs TISA allocation for the current year and the TISA allocation for the 2025-2026 school year.
- Makes other similar changes related to funding and defines disenrollment as used in this section.
Amends 49-6-3504(c) to provide criteria for how the department will award scholarships beginning in the 2026-2027 school year.
Amends Title 49, Chapter 6, Part 35 to add a new section that requires the department to make a report on the number of applications received by each county: number of eligible students that were enrolled in public schools at the time of application; and other information related to the applicant’s income. The report must not include any personal identifiable information.
Effective May 7. 2026.
Public Chapter 1007 Better Spending, Better Schools Act of 2026
SB 2072 – HB 2121 Amends Title 49, Chapter 3, Part 1 to add a new section that requires each LEA and public charter school to submit to the office of research and education accountability (OREA) in the comptroller’s office and the department of education by August 1 of each year 1) a budgetary report for the upcoming school year, and 2) an expenditure report for the last school year. The department will develop standard forms to be used for this purpose.
The form for the planning and budgetary report must include a copy of the budget for the year; revenue estimates; and projected expenditures.
The form for the expenditures report must include instruction costs; personnel costs; student support services costs; school administrative costs; district administrative costs, if applicable, operation and maintenance costs; professional development costs; and expenditures made using direct allocations to the LEA or public charter school.
The form must also require each LEA and public charter school to report the total amount of all grants received; and the total amount of reimbursements received.
The department will make all reports received by each LEA and public charter school publicly available by posting the reports on the state report card. The department shall also include on the state report card the total amount of state funds appropriated through the TISA and local contributions for the school year; and the total indebtedness of each LEA or public charter school as of the last school day of the respective school year.
The department shall by policy establish reporting standards; define data categories; provide technical assistance; and establish submission procedures related to these reporting requirements.
For developing policies; the act takes effect on May 19, 2026. For all other purposes, the act takes effect October 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1012 Public Education
SB 2351 – HB 2177 Amends 49-1-301(a)(6) to provide that each school district and public charter can nominate a junior or senior to serve as a student member on the state board of education.
Amends 49-2-112 to provide that if a school has less than $50,000 for combined funds from the internal school fund and the student activity fund, then the school is not required to audit a separate audit for each of those funds. Amends 49-13-127 to make similar changes for public charter schools.
Amends 49-3-316(a) to provide that:
- Each LEA must provide a certified copy of the budget within 30 days of the beginning of each fiscal year to the commissioner;
- Each local legislative body shall make records related to revenue collected by the LEA or public charter school available upon request;
- Each LEA shall submit a financial report of all receipts and expenditures of the previous school year to the commissioner by October 1;
- Each LEA must deliver the audit report to the commissioner within 10 days of receipt;
- Any submission of the receipts and expenditures financial report made after December 1 shall not decrease the per-pupil funding allocation to public charter schools;
- State funds must not be made to any LEA that has not furnished the commissioner with all records and reports as required above; and
- All reports as provided above shall be made available to the comptroller.
Amends 49-13-105 to provide the commission may require an LEA to contract with a commission to provide school and student support services such as special education services and educational placements to public charter schools located in the geographic boundaries of the LEA.
Amends 49-13-113 to change the enrollment lottery process for public charter schools.
Amends 49-13-121 to provide that a public charter school may be designated as a “high performing public charter school” when certain criteria are met.
Amends 49-13-137 to change requirements for public charter school replication applications.
Amends 49-13-128 to provide that if the commission authorizes a public charter school, then the commission must receive an annual authorizer fee of up to 3% of the public charter school’s per pupil state and local funding as allocated under 49-13-112(a) or $463,000, whichever is less.
Section 5 of the law (related to the lottery process) takes effect upon becoming law. All other sections become effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1040 Education Changes
SB 2533 – HB 2533 Amends 5-21-124 to provide that if the purchasing agent does not maintain records, follow accounting and budgetary procedures, and submit reports as required by state law, and the commissioner of education finds that the county has neglected its duties, then the commissioner shall remove the education department from the county financial management system by written notification to the presiding officer of the county legislative body. Upon notice, the county shall transfer funds under the control of the county to the director of schools to be supervised by him or her as provided by general law.
Amends 8-50-814 to provide that if a teacher or other individual required to be licensed to be employed in a public school who has been on paid or unpaid leave during their employment with the school must have been considered full-time during any such period.
Amends 49-5-413(d) to provide that any person or entity that contracts with a public school, any university with a training school pursuant to 49-8-105, or childcare program is required to submit to background checks if the person or employees of the entity have direct contact with school children or children in a childcare program; or has access to the grounds of a school when children are present. Amends 49-5-413(g) to provide that public schools and universities with a training school pursuant to 49-8-105 shall adopt a policy governing background checks for contract workers and volunteers; and may require state and federal criminal checks for contract workers and volunteers.
Amends 49-6-3004(f) to provide that no public school shall commence the school year earlier than August 1 unless a majority of the governing body votes to establish a year-round or alternative calendar for the schools in its jurisdiction in accordance with the department’s attendance policies.
Makes several other changes related to education.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1057 Underperforming School District – Oversight Board
SB 714 – HB 662 Amends Title 49, Chapter 1, Part 6 to create a new section that requires the creation of an educational oversight board for underperforming school districts when certain criteria are met. Defines the member makeup of the oversight board. The board shall serve a four year term, and must comply with the open meetings law. Meetings may be conducted electronically to allow one or more members to participate electronically. A majority of the members constitute a quorum. The board shall conduct an annual comprehensive needs assessment to determine what may be causing the underperformance of the school district. The oversight board is required to submit an annual report to the governor, speaker of the senate, speaker of the house, the commissioner of education, the local legislative body for the city or county that serves as the local funding body for the LEA and others of the progress made for improving academic performance or operational goals. Requires the local board of education to submit a budget to oversight board before it is submitted to the local legislative body. Makes several other requirements related to the school budget. The local board of education shall not enter, renew or amend any contract that is over $50,000 unless the contract is approved by the local board of education, and provides for several other requirements related to school contracts. The board of education must submit a list of all underutilized or vacant property if applicable. The local board of education shall not deny an application to open a public charter school; convert a public school into a charter school; renew a charter agreement, or petition to amend a charter agreement unless the oversight board has approved the local board’s decision to deny the application. A oversight board may terminate an LEA employee including the director of schools, for cause as defined in the section. Creates a special account in the state treasury called the educational board reserve fund. It is the intent of the general assembly that the recurring appropriation be an amount no less than $500,000 and no more than $1,000,000 to be appropriated to support oversight board during the fiscal year 2026-2027. Upon application, funds may be disbursed to the oversight board to be used for any purpose consistent with this law. Any remaining funds in the fund must be carried forward and must not revert to the general fund. Makes other related changes.
Effective May 22, 2026.
- ELECTIONS
Public Chapter 534 Judges
SB 367 - HB 458 Amends 2-13-203 regarding nominees to fill a vacancy for a judge, district attorney general or public defender occurring later than 180 days before the qualifying deadline.
Effective February 23, 2026.
Public Chapter 605 Restoration of Voting Rights
SB 336 - HB 687 Amends 40-29-102 to remove requirements that a person must pay all court costs and be current in all child support obligations to have their voting rights restored. Instead only requires the person to have been compliant with all child support orders for the previous 12 months, including orders related to arrearages.
Effective March 26, 2026.
Public Chapter 625 Deepfakes
SB 1624 - HB 1513 Amends 2-19-120 to enact the Transparency for Deepfakes in Political Advertising Act. Provides that deepfakes (as defined in 39-17-1902) that depict a candidate engaging in action or speech which the candidate did not actually do/say must contain a clear disclaimer that the communication contains fake content depicting actions and/or speech that did not occur.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 690 Reimbursements for Primaries
SB 1619 - HB 1669 Amends numerous provision relative to elections. Provides that reimbursements to county election commissions for primary elections shall be processed in the same manner as expenses for the presidential preference primary, for years in which the general assembly has appropriated funds for the purpose of providing such reimbursements. Revises provisions relative to filing and purging of voter registration records.
Effective April 16, 2026.
Public Chapter 775 SAVE Program
SB 2204 - HB 2185 Amends 2-2-401 relative to the electronic portal (to be created by the coordinator of elections) through which each county administrator of elections may access information to verify, prior to processing an applicant’s application to register to vote, whether the applicant is a United States citizen based upon records on file at the time of issuance of the most recent driver license or identification card or other credential from the department of safety. Provides that the portal may also access data from the systematic alien verification for entitlements (SAVE) program from the United States department of homeland security, United States citizenship and immigration services (DHS-USCIS), if DHS-USCIS makes such data available via a secure web service.
Effective April 21, 2026.
Public Chapter 913 Changing Treasurer
SB 1757 - HB 1743 Amends 2-19-120 to provide that if a candidate changes treasurers and notifies the registry of election finance of the change, the candidate may continue to use print communication that includes the identification of the former treasurer until the print communication is exhausted. Defines "print communication" to mean a physical sign, placard, pamphlet, flyer, sticker, or other physical material used for a communication, and does not include an audio, video, or digital communication.
Effective May 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1050 Restrooms
SB 232 - HB 659 Amends 2-7-111 to provide that a county election commission may designate restroom facilities in a building in which the election is to be held that are for the use of workers or volunteers working for a campaign. Workers and volunteers of a campaign working outside of a polling place may use restroom facilities in the building in which the election is held that have been designated for use by workers or volunteers working for a campaign, but shall not enter the polling place. A worker or volunteer of a campaign shall cover or remove clothing or accoutrements bearing campaign material before entering the prohibited boundary. A worker or volunteer of a campaign who enters the boundary without covering or removing campaign material, or who attempts to solicit votes within the boundary, may be subject to punishment under 2-19-119.
Effective July 1, 2026.
- EMERGENCY SERVICES
Public Chapter 591 TEMA Disaster Grants
SB 1778 - HB 1467 Amends 58-2-109(c). Clarifies that disaster grants administered by the agency are exempt from the requirements of public purchasing laws, related to procurement, except that the agency retains the right to inspect places of business and audit books and records for compliance and the agency must establish procedures to monitor recipient and subrecipient compliance with disaster response and disaster grant terms and conditions.
Effective March 18, 2026.
Public Chapter 600 Firefighters - Compensation for Injury or Death
SB 1616 - HB 1489 Amends 7-51-201. Expands the applicability of the presumption that a firefighter's cancer was caused by the firefighter's employment to include arson investigators. "Firefighter" means a full-time, paid employee of a fire department of this state or a political subdivision of this state, including an arson investigator who is employed by the Tennessee bureau of investigation or is a sworn deputy of a county sheriff’s department.
Effective March 18, 2026.
Public Chapter 652 Volunteer Firefighter Rescue Squad Grant Program
SB 1865 - HB 2531 Amends 68-102-154. In addition to the existing volunteer firefighter equipment and training grant program, establishes the rescue squad grant program to provide annual grants to select rescue squads to be used for the purchase of firefighting equipment and rescue equipment. The Commissioner of Commerce and Insurance shall promulgate rules in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in Title 4, Chapter 5, to establish guidelines for evaluating grant requests and determining which volunteer fire departments or rescue squads will receive grants pursuant to this section.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 721 Compensation for Death of Emergency Responder
SB 2212 - HB 2477 Amends 7-51-210. Requires a claim for payment of the annuity to be filed with the Department of Finance and Administration within three years after either: (1) the date of death of the decedent or (2) the date of a final order or other determination designating the decedent's death as being in the line of duty that is issued by a court, administrative law judge, or other state or local government official, entity, or body with the authority to issue such order or determination. A denial of a claim made under this section by the estate of a law enforcement officer is subject to review by the Tennessee Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission within one year of the date of the denial. A denial of a claim made under this section by the estate of a firefighter or volunteer rescue squad worker is subject to review by the Commission on Firefighting Personnel Standards and Education within one year of the date of the denial. A denial of a claim made under this section by the estate of an emergency medical technician is subject to review by the Tennessee Emergency Medical Services Board within one year of the date of the denial.
Effective April 13, 2026.
Public Chapter 782 Rescue Squad Recognition Act
SB 1110 - HB 357 Amends Title 68, Chapter 140, by adding a new part.
Enacts the Rescue Squad Recognition Act. Provides that a municipality, county, or political subdivision shall not operate a rescue squad, and a nonprofit organization shall not operate as a rescue squad, unless the rescue squad has been duly recognized and authorized to perform rescue services pursuant to this part by the State Fire Marshal's Office. The State Fire Marshal, in consultation with the Tennessee Association of Rescue Squads and other interested industry groups, shall promulgate rules pursuant to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, relative to the standards and qualifications for becoming and remaining a rescue squad. The State Fire Marshal's Office shall not oversee or have control over funding for a rescue squad whose certificate of charter with the secretary of state is active before July 1, 2026.
A new rescue squad must not be established or recognized without the approval of the local elected governing body in which jurisdiction the rescue squad will operate. This approval must include the geographical territory to be covered by the new rescue squad. A governmental unit, person, or nonprofit organization shall not operate as a rescue squad without a valid certificate of recognition issued by the State Fire Marshal in accordance with this part.
For purposes of promulgating rules and carrying out administrative duties necessary to effectuate this act, this act takes effect upon becoming law, the public welfare requiring it. For all other purposes, this act takes effect July 1, 2026, the public welfare requiring it.
Public Chapter 847 Arson Fire Investigation
SB 2005 - HB 1870 Amends 68-102-127. The commissioner of commerce and insurance and the commissioner's deputies have police powers when necessary to preserve the law relative to cases of arson or suspected arson, including the power to make arrests; provided, that, the individual seeking to exercise the powers has a current certification from the peace officer standards and training commission (POST). In addition, the commissioner and the commissioner's deputies may conduct further investigations as to the origin or circumstances of a fire occurring in this state by the appointment of special assistants or the employment of other means necessary in the commissioner's discretion. Does not prohibit the commissioner or the commissioner's deputies from otherwise conducting investigations as to the origin or circumstances of a fire occurring in this state without a current certification from POST if the commissioner or the commissioner's deputy is not exercising police powers in conducting the investigation.
A municipal fire investigator has police powers, including the power to make arrests, when necessary to preserve the laws of this state or the investigator's respective municipality relative to cases of arson or suspected arson if the municipal fire investigator: (1) Has been authorized by the chief of the municipal fire department or the director of fire services to conduct investigations relative to the cause and origin of fires or arson investigations; and (2) Has a current certification from POST. Does not prohibit a municipal fire investigator from conducting an investigation relative to the cause and origin of a fire or arson investigations without a current certification from POST if the municipal fire investigator is not exercising police powers in conducting the investigation.
A county fire investigator has police powers, including the power to make arrests, when necessary to preserve the laws of this state or the investigator's respective jurisdiction relative to cases of arson or suspected arson if the county fire investigator: (1) Has been authorized by the chief of the county-wide fire department or the director of fire services to conduct investigations relative to the cause and origin of fires or arson investigations; and (2) Has a current certification from POST. Does not prohibit a county fire investigator from conducting an investigation relative to the cause and origin of a fire or arson investigations without a current certification from POST if the county fire investigator is not exercising police powers in conducting the investigation.
The POST certification requirement does not apply to a municipal or county fire investigator serving as a fire investigator on January 1, 2027, who was hired as a fire investigator prior to January 1, 2021.
A municipal or county fire investigator serving as a fire investigator on January 1, 2027, who was hired as a fire investigator on or after January 1, 2021, shall comply with the POST certification requirement by January 1, 2030.
Amends 38-8-107(h). Except as otherwise provided in 68-102-127(d), the commission shall also issue a certificate of compliance to the commissioner of commerce and insurance; the commissioner's deputies; a municipal fire investigator, as described in§ 68-102-127(b)(1); or a county fire investigator, as described in § 68-102-127(c)(1), on or after January 1, 2028, if the person meets the qualifications for employment as a police officer and satisfactorily completes an approved recruit training program as required by this part. To retain this certification, the person shall also successfully complete an annual in-service training session appropriate for the fire investigator's responsibilities.
Effective January 1, 2028.
Public Chapter 957 Local EMA Required Training
SB 2004 - HB 1753 Amends Title 58, Chapter 2, Part 1. Requires each local emergency management agency on an annual basis to: (1) Require all employees to receive training provided by TEMA on the Mutual Aid and Emergency and Disaster Assistance Agreement Act of 2004, compiled in Title 58, Chapter 8, and the lnterlocal Cooperation Act, compiled in Title 12, Chapter 9; and (2) Document the completion of the required in the employee's personnel or training file. TEMA shall document the completion of the required training.
The chief executive of each police department, sheriff's department, fire department, public works department, highway department, municipal utility, or county or municipal finance office that is a participating governmental entity, as defined by 58-8-102, is encouraged to designate employees to receive the training provided by TEMA.
Effective July 11, 2026.
Public Chapter 965 Paramedics - Pronouncement of Death
SB 343 - HB 398 Amends Title 68, Chapter 3, Part 5. A paramedic, licensed pursuant to 68-140-306, may make an actual determination and pronouncement of death if the paramedic has successfully completed training in the determination and pronouncement of death and the paramedic has attempted to resuscitate the person in accordance with standards established by the emergency medical services board. This section does not permit a paramedic to make the actual determination and pronouncement of death of a patient who is in a hospital when the apparent death occurs.
Amends Title 68, Chapter 140, Part 3. A paramedic who intends to determine and pronounce death shall, before doing so, complete a course of instruction in determining and pronouncing death. A paramedic who determines and pronounces death shall retain proof of successful completion of the required course and make the proof readily available to the board or the board's designee upon request. A paramedic who fails to comply with the standards for determining and pronouncing death set forth in this part or rules of the board may be subject to discipline by the board.
Effective January 1, 2027.
Public Chapter 988 Emergency Utility Worker
SB 2658 - HB 2402 Amends 58-2-101. "Emergency utility worker" means an individual who: (1) Is employed by, or acting as an authorized contractor for, a privately, publicly, or cooperatively owned facility or system used to transmit or distribute communications, electricity, gas, liquids, steam, sewerage, or other materials to the public; and (2) Is engaged in the installation, maintenance, repair, or restoration of such facilities or systems during a state of emergency declared pursuant to 58-2-107 that is based on a natural emergency.
Amends Title 58, Chapter 2, Part 1, by adding 58-2-112. During a state of emergency declared pursuant to 58-2-107 that is based on a natural emergency, an emergency utility worker may travel upon public roads and enter areas subject to curfew or restricted access orders when such access is necessary to perform emergency utilities restoration activities. State and local law enforcement agencies shall allow reasonable access under this section upon presentation of employer or contractor credentials by the emergency utility worker. This section does not limit the authority of state and local law enforcement to prohibit access for a valid law enforcement purpose.
Amends Title 29, Chapter 34, by adding 29-34-216.
An emergency utility worker and the emergency utility worker's employer, are immune from civil liability for injury, death, or property damage resulting from an act or omission of the emergency utility worker committed in good faith while engaged in emergency utilities restoration activities during a state of emergency declared pursuant to 58-2-107 that is based on a natural emergency, as defined in 58-2-101. This section does not provide immunity from civil liability to an employer of an emergency utility worker for the negligent acts or omissions of the employer or of the emergency utility worker.
Effective May 19, 2026.
Public Chapter 1031 Volunteer Fire Dept Vehicle Grant Program
SB 2338 - HB 2446 Amends Title 68, Chapter 102, Part 1. The volunteer firefighter vehicle grant program is established to annually provide grants to select volunteer fire departments to assist with local match requirements for federal grants to purchase vehicles. The commissioner of commerce and insurance shall establish the amount the state contributes. However, the grant program must not fund the total local match portion in any year. The commissioner shall strive to distribute grant program funding proportionally based on the number of recognized volunteer fire departments serving each of the three grand divisions of this state. The commissioner shall decide which grants to award and shall disburse the grants to the selected volunteer fire departments. It is the legislative intent to fund the grant program by providing an initial appropriation of one million dollars in the appropriation act for fiscal year 2026-2027. The commissioner shall promulgate rules to establish guidelines for evaluating grant requests and determining which volunteer fire departments receive grants.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1045 Dept of TEMA
SB 2248 - HB 2560 Amends Title 4, Chapter 3. Creates the Department of the Tennessee Emergency Management Authority ("TEMA"). The Department of TEMA is under the charge and general supervision of the commissioner of TEMA. The commissioner of TEMA is vested with such powers and required to perform such duties as are set forth in Title 58, Chapter 2, and is charged with the administration of such laws as the general assembly from time to time may enact. All current rules, orders, decisions, and policies issued or promulgated by the Tennessee emergency management agency under Title 58, Chapter 2, remain in full force and effect and must be administered and enforced by the department of TEMA. To this end, the department of TEMA, through its commissioner, may, consistent with the statutes and rules pertaining to the programs and functions transferred by this section, modify or rescind orders, rules, decisions, or policies so issued and to adopt, issue, or promulgate new orders, rules, decisions, or policies as may be necessary for the administration of the programs or functions transferred by this section.
Amends 58-2-104. Provides that the department shall authorize the creation of local organizations for emergency management in the political subdivisions of this state, and authorize cooperation with the federal government and the governments of other states. The commissioner, subject to the direction and control of the governor, is the executive head of the department and is responsible to the governor for carrying out the program for the department for this state. The commissioner shall coordinate the activities of all organizations for the department within this state and shall maintain liaison with and cooperate with emergency management agencies and organizations of other states and of the federal government. The department of the military is a resource for this state as with all other departments and agencies; further, the commissioner shall make recommendations to the governor for the use of the national guard and other state resources as disaster conditions mandate, including, but not limited to, the assistance of local and private agencies. The commissioner shall coordinate with the governor's office on the activation or the potential activation of any mutual aid agreement or compact. The commissioner may employ such area directors and professional, technical, clerical, and other personnel, and the commissioner shall fix their compensation and may make expenditures from available funds appropriated for the department or from funds made available to the commissioner for purposes of emergency management, as may be necessary to carry out this chapter. The commissioner must be provided with necessary and appropriate office space, furniture, supplies, printing, and equipment, including, but not limited to, radio, radiological, and any and all other proper equipment necessary to carry out the emergency management program for this state. The necessary mileage, office expenses, salaries of personnel, postage, telephone, and expressage must be chargeable to any funds available for emergency management.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1092 Surrendering Custody of Unwanted Infants
SB 1773 - HB 1844 Amends 68-11-255. Adds ambulance stations that has staff scheduled 24 hours a day to the list of facilities that must receive possession of a newborn infant left on the premises with an employee or member of the professional medical community if certain listed conditions are met.
Effective May 22, 2026.
Public Chapter 1123 Ground Ambulance Service
SB 2221 - HB 2097 Amends 71-5-1506 and 1509. Extends the ground ambulance service annual assessment to June 30, 2027; changes the penalty imposed by the bureau on an ambulance provider for each day an assessment remains unpaid from $50 per calendar day to 5 percent of the principal amount owed per month for each month.
Effective May 22, 2026.
Public Chapter 1135 Fireworks
SB 2419 - HB 2223 Amends 68-104-102. Requires a person who offers sparkling devices for sale and who does not hold a permit to register with the state fire marshal each location at which the person will offer sparkling devices for sale. The registration fee is twenty-five dollars. The state fire marshal shall not issue a registration to a person who is under eighteen years of age. A registration is valid for the calendar year, or any fraction of the calendar year, in which the registration was issued and expires on December 31 of that year. A registrant whose registration has expired and who has not renewed the registration is not in violation of the law until the third day after the date of expiration.
Amends 68-104-101. "Sparkling devices" means ground-based or hand-held devices that emit showers of sparks and sometimes a whistling or crackling effect when burning, do not detonate or explode, and cannot propel themselves through the air. Includes cylindrical fountains, cone fountains, illuminating torches, wheels, ground spinners, flitter sparklers, toy smoke devices, and wire sparklers containing no more than one hundred grams of pyrotechnic composition per item.
Amends 68-104-116. This chapter does not affect the validity of any private act, county ordinance, or city ordinance further prohibiting or restricting the sale or use of fireworks; provided, that in counties with a population of not less than fifty-eight thousand seventy-five (58,075) nor more than fifty-eight thousand one hundred seventy-five (58, 175), according to the 1980 federal census or any subsequent federal census, 68-104-105 controls.
A private act, county ordinance, or city ordinance that is in effect before or on June 30, 2026, and that prohibits or restricts the sale or use of fireworks pursuant to 68-104-116 (a) also prohibits or restricts the sale or use of sparkling devices, unless the private act, county ordinance, or city ordinance is amended to allow for the sale or use of sparkling devices.
Effective July 1, 2026.
- ENVIRONMENT
Public Chapter 756 Energy Freedom
SB 2560 - HB 2070 Enacts the Tennessee Energy Freedom Act in 68-206-101 through 103. Provides that the purpose of the act is to protect the substantive right to engage in covered activities and to prevent discrimination against the exercise of such right. Defines covered activities as the exploration, production, transportation, sale, manufacturing, refining, combustion, or other use of coal, oil, and natural gas in this state by a person (and statements or omissions in this state relating to covered emissions). Provides that, except where required by federal law, no covered government or private party may bring an action in any forum, or otherwise to impose or seek to impose any liability in connection with, covered emissions from covered activities, unless the liability is calculated and based solely on in-jurisdiction products. Provides that a natural person or company required by a law to file reports with this state or a covered government may seek declaratory relief to conclusively determine and establish a definitive record of the person's covered emissions in this state pursuant to a specific statutory process/formula.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 814 Region Plans for Location of Disposal
SB 2547 - HB 2516 Amends 68-211-813 to provide that each region shall develop a plan, including a narrative identifying where waste will be disposed and managed for the next ten (10) years, and for achieving compliance with the waste reduction and recycling goal. Amends 68-211-814 to provide that each region shall submit its new or revised plan to the TDEC by July 1, 2028. The plan shall be formulated in strict compliance with 68-211-815. Provides that the underground storage tanks and solid waste disposal control board shall promulgate rules establishing criteria for review of regional plans by December 31, 2027.
Effective April 21, 2026.
Public Chapter 838 Hearings Before an Administrative Judge
SB 1883 - HB 2537 Amends numerous provisions. Provides that certain actions of the board of water quality, oil and gas and certain actions pursuant to the Water Quality Control Act heard by an administrative judge shall require an initial order to be administered by the administrative judge within 90 days after completion of the record of the hearing. A party must file a petition for appeal pursuant to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act within 15 days of the initial order. Otherwise, the order of the administrative judge is final. The board of water quality, oil and gas is prohibited from reviewing an initial order of the administrative judge unless it is appealed by a party. Provides similar provisions relative to certain actions of the pollution control board and the underground storage tanks and solid waste disposal board.
Effective April 27, 2026.
Public Chapter 891 Class II Pastoral Rivers
SB 1590 - HB 1510 Amends 11-13-104 to add several rivers and river segments to the list of Class II pastoral river areas. Amends 11-13-108 to provide for the boundary setting procedures of community outreach and notarized consent applicable to boundaries set by the commissioner of TDEC on the Duck River apply to all new proposed scenic river area boundaries.
Effective May 5, 2026.
- FIREARMS
Public Chapter 919 Possession of a Firearm in a County Courthouse
SB 2352 - HB 2376 Amends 39-17-1359. Provides that if the possession of a firearm in a county courthouse is restricted or prohibited pursuant to subsection 39-17-1359 (g) or 39-17-1306, then the sheriff of the county may provide secure storage lockers for those individuals who are carrying a firearm pursuant to 39-17-1351, 39-17-1366, or 39-17-1307 to store the firearm in separate secured, lockable storage units at or near a designated public entrance to the building or structure at no cost to the individual.
Effective May 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1141 Carrying Weapons During Judicial Proceedings
SB 2469 - HB 2174 Amends 39-17-1306(c)(3). Authorizes a judge to carry a weapon during judicial proceedings who is in the actual discharge of official duties as a judge, and is vested with judicial powers under 16-1-101 and is authorized to carry a handgun pursuant to 39-17-1351.
Effective July 1, 2026.
- HIGHWAYS
Public Chapter 601 Commercial Driver’s Licenses
SB 1669 - HB 1546 Amends 55-50-411(a)(2) to delete the prohibition against denying a commercial driver’s license based on the failure to meet motor safety carrier regulations because of a medical history or clinical diagnosis of diabetes mellitus currently requiring insulin, but whose medical history indicates that the insulin controls the diabetes to the extent that the condition is not likely to cause any loss of ability to control a motor vehicle.
Effective March 18, 2026.
Public Chapter 663 Utility Terrain Vehicles
SB 2596 - HB 2267 Amends 55-8-185(c)(1) to provide the speed limit restriction of 45 mph for state highways and county roads does not apply to UTVs being operated for agricultural purposes.
Effective April 1, 2026.
- JAILS
Public Chapter 609 Tennessee Corrections Institute
SB 1589 - HB 1502 Amends 41-4-140(a). Provides that the Tennessee corrections institute has the additional power and duty to establish certification requirements for corrections officers; and inspect and certify local correctional training academies associated with local jails, lock-ups, and workhouses.
Amends 41-4-140(d). Provides a local currently certified facility must not be decertified if the local government has submitted a plan of action within 90 days of the initial annual inspection that is reasonably expected to eliminate fixed ratio deficiencies, staffing emergencies, capital projects, or deficiencies that do not impact the life or safety of the inmates or employees in that facility and cause that facility to remain certified. Provides further guidance on plans of actions Amends 41-7-106. Adds that the board is authorized to establish uniform standards for the training of corrections recruits and corrections officers, including requirements for corrections officer certification, continued certification, and revocation of certification. The board is authorized to establish uniform standards for the certification of local correctional training academies for the purpose of training corrections recruits and corrections officers. The board may issue, or revoke as required, special certifications to persons who, by reason of experience and completion of in-service training, advanced education, or specialized training, are especially qualified for particular aspects or classes relevant to the corrections profession.
Amends 39-17-1315(a). Adds to the list of authorized persons who may carry a handgun any director or full-time employee of the Tennessee Corrections Institute in the performance of the director or employee's duty.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 751 Arrestee Requiring Medical Attention
SB 1724 - HB 1815 Enacts 41-4-145. Provides that a sheriff, jail administrator, or deputy jailer may refuse or delay acceptance into the jail an arrestee if the arrestee has not received medical treatment for obvious serious physical injuries or conditions of an emergency nature.
Upon refusal or delay the sheriff, jail administrator, or deputy jailer shall document the factual basis for the determination. It is the responsibility of the arresting law enforcement agency to obtain medical attention for the arrestee prior to delivery to the jail. Upon medical release by the healthcare facility or healthcare provider, the sheriff, jail administrator, or deputy jailer must assume custody of the individual when presented at the jail. The arresting agency shall provide the jail with the medical release or discharge documentation from the healthcare provider or healthcare facility. Notwithstanding this section, the sheriff, jail administrator, or deputy jailer may accept an arrestee into custody who appears to be in need of medical attention and who refuses medical examination or medical attention. The sheriff, jail administrator, or deputy jailer is immune from civil and criminal liability for accepting such arrestees into custody.
Amends 8-8-201. A sheriff, jail administrator, or deputy jailer whose duty it is to receive persons arrested pursuant to law may refuse or delay acceptance of an arrestee as provided in 41-4-145.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 841 State Inmates
SB 1914 - HB 1839 Amends Title 41, Chapter 22, Part 1. Notwithstanding another law to the contrary, if an inmate is housed in a local jail and the inmate is participating in a work release or re-entry program, then the department of correction shall not remove the inmate from the local jail facility for the purpose of relocating the inmate to a state facility unless the inmate has failed to meet the work release or inhouse duty requirements or the inmate's disciplinary records warrant the inmate's removal from participation in the work release or re-entry program.
Effective April 27, 2026.
- LAW ENFORCEMENT
Public Chapter 597 Sexual Assault
SB 920 - HB 679 Amends 39-13-519(b). Clarifies that when the victim of a sexually oriented crime is a minor, the consent of a parent or guardian is not required for the victim to receive a forensic medical examination pursuant to this section.
Effective March 18, 2026.
Public Chapter 626 Desecration of Venerated Object
SB 1841 - HB 1731 Amends 39-17-311. Adds, "desecrate" includes, but is not limited to, the removal of objects from a place of burial by a person other than a family member of the deceased, an authorized representative of the cemetery, an employee of the department of environment and conservation's division of archaeology in the ordinary course of the employee's duties under Title 11, Chapter 6, or persons otherwise authorized by law to remove such objects.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 692 Sheriff’s Fees
SB 1637 - HB 1798 Amends 8-21-901 (a)(2)(B)(ii). Provides that for purposes of the payment of fees for garnishments as provided in this subdivision (a)(2)(B), all garnishments are deemed to be original garnishments and the sheriff or other person authorized by law to serve garnishments is entitled to the fee provided for in this subdivision (a)(2)(B) for each such garnishment served. The sheriff or other authorized person may demand that the fee for performing service of the garnishment be paid in advance of such performance.
Effective April 14, 2026.
Public Chapter 702 Nitrous Oxide Abuse
SB 1843 - HB 1644 Amends Title 39, Chapter 17. Adds 39-17-2001 to 2003.
Enacts the "Nitrous Oxide Abuse Prevention and Retail Sale Prohibition Act." Provides that it is unlawful for a retail seller to sell or offer for sale nitrous oxide. As used in this amendment, "retail seller" means a tobacco vending machine, place, store, booth, concession, truck or vehicle, person, partnership, firm, entity, corporation, or association engaged in the business of making sales at retail of nitrous oxide directly to the ultimate consumer within this state.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 706 Office of Homeland Security
SB 1880 - HB 1639 Amends Title 4, Chapter 3, Part 20. Creates within the Department of Safety the Office of Homeland Security.
Effective April 13, 2026.
Public Chapter 726 Automated Driving System Vehicles
SB 2253 - HB 2302 Amends 55-8-202. Authorizes a state or local law enforcement agency to establish a policy regarding methods in which to enforce traffic offenses committed by an ADS, including providing notices of violation or citations, and if such a policy is established, then the policy must align with the process for issuing citations for traffic violations by autonomous vehicles described in the bill.
Effective April 13, 2026.
Public Chapter 738 TWRA Agreements with Local Law Enforcement
SB 2597 - HB 2215 Amends 70-1-305. Specifies that an agreement between TWRA and a local law enforcement agency does not authorize the local law enforcement agency to exceed TWRA's jurisdiction. The agreements created and entered into pursuant to this law must require local law enforcement agencies to provide regular reports to the executive director, or the director's designee, when the authority under the agreement is exercised. Such reporting must include, but not be limited to, all details related to the citation, including the facts of the offense, and the final disposition.
Amends Title 70, Chapter 4, Part 2. Establishes a criminal offense for feeding bears under certain circumstances.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 764 Cameras on School Buses – Failure to Stop
SB 2258 - HB 2356 Amends 55-8-151(c)(2). Requires a local education agency that installs cameras on the exterior of school buses for the purpose of recording images of motor vehicles that fail to stop upon approaching a school bus to either: (1) enter into a memorandum of understanding with local law enforcement that includes the review of evidence from a camera and overall enforcement; or (2) authorize school safety personnel to review evidence from a camera to determine whether a violation has occurred.
Authorizes a memorandum of understanding entered into with local law enforcement by a local education agency to require only POST-certified or state-commissioned law enforcement officers to review evidence from a camera to determine whether a violation has occurred. Further, a local education agency may both enter into a memorandum of understanding with local law enforcement and authorize school safety personnel to review evidence from a camera.
Effective April 13, 2026.
Public Chapter 766 Virtual Currency Kiosk Operator
SB 2251 - HB 2505 Enacts 45-16-201 and 45-16-202. Makes it a class A misdemeanor for a virtual kiosk operator or other person to knowingly install or allow installation of, permit, place, or otherwise operate a virtual currency kiosk in this state.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 770 Brady Lists
SB 1210 - HB 1254 Amends Title 38, Chapter 8, Part 3, by adding a new section. Requires a prosecuting agency that maintains a Brady list to adopt a policy that includes all of the following: (1) The criteria used by the prosecuting agency to place an officer's name on a Brady list; (2) The officer's right to receive written notice and a summary of the reasoning of the prosecuting agency before the prosecuting agency places the officer's name on a Brady list, and the officer's right to provide input to the prosecuting agency before the prosecuting agency makes a determination of whether the officer's name should be placed on a Brady list; (3) The officer's right to make a request for reconsideration of the prosecuting agency's determination to include the officer's name on a Brady list and to submit supporting and corroborating documents and evidence in support of the officer's request for reconsideration; (4) The applicable time frame and procedures for notifying the officer of the prosecuting agency's final decision on an officer's request for reconsideration.
Requires the prosecuting agency to send the policy to all law enforcement agencies in the district for comment before the policy is adopted. As used in this amendment, a "Brady list" means a designation made, letter issued, or list compiled by a prosecuting agency containing the names and details of law enforcement officers who have sustained incidents of untruthfulness, criminal convictions, candor issues, or other issues that place the officer's credibility into question.
Requires a prosecuting agency to send written notice by mail or email to a law enforcement officer's last known employment address before a prosecuting agency makes a determination to place a law enforcement officer's name on a Brady list. Such a written notice must include: (1) A notice that the officer's name may be placed on a Brady list; (2) A summary of the justifications for Brady list consideration; (3) The officer's right to provide input to the prosecuting agency prior to the prosecuting agency's determination of whether the officer's name should be placed on a Brady list; and (4) The prosecuting agency's procedural requirements for an officer to provide input to the prosecuting agency.
If the prosecuting agency places an officer's name on a Brady list, then the prosecuting agency shall send a written notice by mail or email to the officer's current or last known employment address. Upon receipt of the notice, the officer's current or last known employer shall provide the written notice to the officer at the officer's last known address. The written notice must include, at a minimum, the following: (1) The officer's right to make a request to reconsider the allegations and placement on a Brady list; (2) The prosecuting agency's procedural requirements for submitting a written request for reconsideration, including the method and time frame for submitting the request for reconsideration and any supporting and corroborating documents and evidence from any pertinent sources; (3) A summary of the justifications for inclusion of the officer's name on a Brady list; and (4) A statement that, if the officer intends to make a request to reconsider placement on a Brady list, then the officer must submit the written request for reconsideration to the prosecuting agency as soon as practicable after receiving the notice.
If an officer submits a request for reconsideration pursuant to this section and the officer's request for reconsideration is approved by the prosecuting agency on its merits, then the officer's name must be removed from the Brady list. If the officer's request for reconsideration is denied by the prosecuting agency, then the officer's name must remain on the Brady list. If an officer does not submit a request for reconsideration or fails to comply with the requirements for submitting a request for reconsideration, then the officer's name must remain on the Brady list.
Effective April 21, 2026.
Public Chapter 771 Immigration
SB 1779 - HB 1704 Amends Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 1 by adding a new section. Creates the Class A misdemeanor of intentionally failing or refusing to depart when a final order of removal is outstanding.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Amends Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 1 by adding a new section. Creates the Class A misdemeanor of intentionally entering, attempting to enter, or being found in this state after being denied admission, excluded, deported, or removed from the United States.
Effective on the thirtieth day following the occurrence of either of the following circumstances, the public welfare requiring it: (1) The issuance of the judgment in any decision of the United States Supreme Court overruling, in whole or in part, Arizona v. United States, 567 U.S. 387 (2012), thereby authorizing states to determine that a person is unlawfully present in this state; or (2) Adoption of a federal statutory provision that, in whole or in part, removes the preemption of states' ability to determine that a person is unlawfully present in this state.
Public Chapter 777 Crush Transnational Repression in Tennessee Act
SB 2644 - HB 2279 Amends Title 39, Chapter 16. Enhances criminal offenses, nullifies certain actions, creates new offenses. The offense is committed by an agent of a foreign adversary or a foreign terrorist organization while acting knowingly at the direction of, on behalf of, or under the influence of the foreign adversary or foreign terrorist organization or a proxy of the foreign adversary or foreign terrorist organization. The offense is committed with the intent to (1) coerce a person to act on behalf of a foreign adversary or foreign terrorist organization; (2) coerce a person to leave the United States or cause another person to leave the United States; (3) cause a person to forebear from engaging in constitutionally protected conduct; or (4) retaliate against a person for engaging in constitutionally protected conduct. The offense is not protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 780 Threat Of Mass Violence On School Property
SB 591 - HB 1273 Amends 39-16-517(d). Clarifies that a threat of mass violence is credible for purposes of this section if the threat causes another to reasonably expect the commission of an act of mass violence.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 789 Marijuana
SB 1603 - HB 1972 Amends 39-17-403(d). Provides that if marijuana is rescheduled or deleted as a controlled substance under federal law, then the commissioner of mental health and substance abuse services is prohibited from rescheduling or deleting marijuana under state law, unless the general assembly has established a regulatory framework for marijuana and authorized the commissioner to reschedule or delete marijuana as a controlled substance.
Effective April 23, 2026.
Public Chapter 836 Private Protective Services
SB 1864 - HB 2528 Amends Title 62, Chapter 35. Clarifies that a reserve officer/deputy, part-time officer/deputy, or auxiliary officer/deputy who meets or exceeds the training requirements for the type of security services or location where the officer or deputy is providing services is not required to obtain a registration. However, such officer or deputy must complete biannual refresher training or its equivalent. The officer or deputy is prohibited from providing security services if they have not completed required training within the last two years. Makes multiple additional changes to the law.
Effective April 27, 2026.
Public Chapter 868 Unmanned Aircraft – Public Schools
SB 2434 - HB 2147 Amends 39-13-903. Makes it a criminal offense to knowingly use an unmanned aircraft over the grounds of a public school that serves students in any of the grades kindergarten through twelve (K-12) with the intent to conduct surveillance of the school grounds without permission of a school administrator, the director of schools, or the director's designee. Does not apply to: (1) A law enforcement officer acting within the scope of the law enforcement officer's lawful duties; or (2) The operator of an unmanned aircraft that is being used for a commercial purpose if the operator is authorized by the federal aviation administration to conduct operations in that airspace.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 871 Fraudulent Freight Theft
SB 2466 - HB 2139 Amends Title 39, Chapter 14, Part 1. Provides that fraudulent freight theft is punishable as theft pursuant to present law pertaining to property theft. "Fraudulent freight theft" means the unlawful obtaining, control, diversion, or disposition of freight through deception, misrepresentation, impersonation, false pretenses, or identity fraud. Prohibits a law enforcement agency from refusing to accept a report solely on the basis that the physical theft did not occur within the geographic boundaries of the agency's jurisdiction. The department of safety is authorized to promulgate rules and forms to effectuate this act.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 875 Vehicular Assault
SB 375 - HB 359 Amends 39-13-106. Adds that "serious bodily injury" means bodily injury that involves: (1) A substantial risk of death; (2) Protracted unconsciousness; (3) Extreme physical pain; (4) Protracted or obvious disfigurement; (5) Protracted loss or substantial impairment of a function of a bodily member, organ, or mental faculty; or (6) A broken bone.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 880 Immediate Methamphetamine Precursor
SB 2323 - HB 2101 Amends 39-17-431. Increases the amount of products containing ephedrine or pseudoephedrine a person may purchase in a one-year period from 43.2 grams to 61.2 grams. Makes multiple additional changes to the law.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 886 Human Trafficking
SB 1225 - HB 1354 Amends 39-11-611. Provides that a person is presumed to have held a reasonable belief of imminent death or serious bodily injury to self if: (1) The person uses force intended or likely to cause death or serious bodily injury against an individual who is committing or attempting to commit a human trafficking offense; and (2) The person using force is the victim of the human trafficking offense being committed or attempted by the individual. A person must prove the person's status as a victim of human trafficking by clear and convincing evidence. A person may provide clear and convincing evidence of the person's status as a victim of human trafficking through testimony.
Effective May 5, 2026.
Public Chapter 897 Mass Shooting – Drug Testing
SB 2088 - HB 2013 Amends Title 40, Chapter 7, Part 1. A law enforcement officer who has probable cause to believe that a person has committed a mass shooting may ask if the person consents to a blood or urine test for the purpose of: (1) Determining the presence of any drugs, including therapeutic levels of psychotropic drugs; and (2) Studying the interactions between any psychotropic drugs and other drugs that are present in the person's blood or urine. If the person consents to a blood or urine test, then the law enforcement officer must cause to be administered the blood or urine test by a qualified practitioner at a hospital. If the person is a minor, then only the parent or legal guardian may consent to the blood or urine test for the minor.
This section does not preclude a law enforcement officer from seeking a search warrant pursuant to title 40, chapter 6, part 1.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 907 Criminal Trespass
SB 2471 - HB 2284 Amends 39-14-405(d). Adds new definition, "enter" means: Intrusion by driving, parking, or otherwise operating a motorized vehicle or bicycle. "Motorized vehicle or bicycle" includes, but is not limited to, all-terrain vehicles, utility task vehicles, side-by-sides, electric bicycles, motorcycles, and motorscooters.
Criminal trespass is a Class A misdemeanor if the violation involved the use or operation of a motorized vehicle or bicycle and is punishable only by a mandatory fine in the amount of two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500), and the sentence must include an order of restitution for all damages to the property resulting from the violation. Upon a second or subsequent violation involving the use or operation of a motorized vehicle or bicycle, the motorized vehicle or bicycle is, upon conviction of the offense, subject to seizure and forfeiture as provided in Title 40, Chapter 33, Part 1.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 918 Unmanned Aircraft - Ticketed Entertainment Event
SB 2543 - HB 2368 Amends Title 39, Chapter 13, Part 9 by adding a new section. A person commits the offense of unauthorized operation of an unmanned aircraft who operates an unmanned aircraft within four hundred feet of or above a ticketed entertainment event. A violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor. "Ticketed entertainment event" means any music, sporting, or performing arts event held in a location with gated entries or barriers that prevent access to the general public and in which a ticket that has been issued by an owner, operator, or lessee of such property is required for attendance at such event.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 967 Crime Stoppers Programs
SB 1492 - HB 1924 Amends Title 38; Title 39 and Title 40. Directs the Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations (TACIR) to study the status of the crime stoppers programs across the state and make recommendations to enhance such programs. TACIR may request information and input from other appropriate state and local governmental entities, as necessary, and such entities shall comply with TACIR's request. The study must be conducted from TACIR's existing resources.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 972 Sex Offenders - Campgrounds
SB 2543 - HB 2368 Amends 40-39-211. While mandated to comply with the requirements of this part, a sexual offender or violent sexual offender must notify the owner or operator of any campground on which the offender intends to stay overnight of the offender's status as a sexual offender or violent sexual offender prior to beginning the stay. A person who knowingly stays overnight at a campground without providing the required notice commits an offense, which is punishable as provided in law.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 974 Cruelty to Animals
SB 2133 - HB 2263 Amends 39-14-217(b). Except as provided in subsections (d) and (e), a person commits aggravated cruelty to a livestock animal who, in a depraved and sadistic manner, intentionally: (1) Starves the livestock animal to death without justifiable or lawful purpose; or (2) Engages in any of the conduct described in subdivisions (c)(1)-(12), the conduct results in serious bodily injury to the animal or the death of the animal, and is without justifiable or lawful purpose.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1001 Enforcement of Immigration Laws
SB 1486 - HB 2018 Amends 7-68-105(d). A sheriff's department that is currently operating pursuant to a memorandum of agreement under an available federal 287(9) program must accept and honor any immigration detainer received from federal immigration authorities. As used in this subsection (d), "accept and honor" means to comply with the requested conditions in the immigration detainer and includes maintaining custody of the subject of an immigration detainer for forty-eight hours, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, beyond the time when the subject would have otherwise been released from the sheriffs department's custody to allow federal immigration authorities to take custody of the subject and notifying federal immigration authorities as soon as possible prior to releasing the subject of the immigration detainer.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1010 Tennessee Safe Initiative Task Force
SB 2405 - HB 2157 Amends 38-6-102. There is established a Tennessee Safe Initiative Task Force, which is administratively attached to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. The task force shall determine when criminal activity in a particular jurisdiction is so prevalent as to endanger public safety and require additional law enforcement operations.
A sheriff, chief of police, or district attorney general may submit to the task force a written request that the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation provide additional law enforcement operations from the Tennessee Safe Initiative within the official's specific jurisdiction. The task force shall notify the sheriff, chief of police, and district attorney general within the district who did not submit the request, if any, of the request. The task force is not required to vote on a request. The director of the TBI may provide the requested law enforcement operations from the Tennessee Safe Initiative.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1015 Enforcement of Immigration Laws
SB 2223 - HB 2219 Amends 7-68-105(b). Except as otherwise provided in this subsection (b), by January 1, 2027, the sheriff of each county must enter into an agreement under an available federal 287(g) program pursuant to the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. § 1357(9)) with the appropriate federal official, concerning the enforcement of federal immigration law. An agreement under this subdivision (b)(1) is not subject to approval from the governing body of the local government that the sheriff serves. For purposes of this subdivision (b)(1), "an available federal 287(g) program" must be one of the following programs: (1) Jail enforcement model; (2) Warrant service officer model; (3) Task force model; or (4) Tribal task force model.
A violation of this subdivision (b)(1) may result in the state withholding all funds of the state allotted to the sheriff's office or to the local government for use by the sheriff's office via grant, contract, or statute, including, but not limited to, state-shared taxes, pursuant to 4-1-429.
A sheriff's office may temporarily suspend compliance with a memorandum of agreement executed pursuant to this subdivision (b)(1) if an emergency arises that requires the sheriff's office to redirect deputy sheriffs and resources to respond to the emergency due to a legitimate threat to the public safety and welfare. If a sheriff’s office temporarily suspends compliance with the memorandum of agreement pursuant to this subdivision (b)(1)(D), then the sheriff must provide notice as soon as practicable to the chief immigration enforcement officer and the commissioner of safety.
Effective May 19, 2026.
Public Chapter 1021 Tennessee Anti-Grooming Act
SB 2566 - HB 2317 Amends Title 39, Chapter 13, Part 5. Enacts the "Tennessee Anti-Grooming Act," which creates the criminal offense of grooming a minor.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1024 Tourism Development Zones
SB 2157 – HB 2366 Enacts a new chapter at Title 7, Chapter 92, Part 1, to prohibit local governments from blocking streets or rights-of-way within tourism development zones except under certain conditions. Provides the Tennessee Highway Patrol has concurrent law enforcement jurisdiction within tourism development zones. Authorizes the department of tourist development to promulgate rules regulating ingress and egress into businesses and public property as well as unlawful loitering, sitting, camping, or sleeping on public property.
Effective May 19, 2026, for purposes of promulgating rules. For all other purposes, this act takes effect August 1, 2026, the public welfare requiring it.
Public Chapter 1070 Unlawful Presence in The United States
SB 1587 - HB 1706 Amends 55-50-403. Makes it an offense for a direct employer to knowingly employ and allow a person unlawfully present in the United States to operate a commercial motor vehicle in this state. It is an offense for a person who is unlawfully present in the United States to operate a commercial motor vehicle in this state if the operation of the vehicle requires the operator to be issued and possess a valid commercial driver license. A violation is a Class A misdemeanor. A law enforcement officer who arrests a person for a violation of this law shall notify the officer's law enforcement agency of the arrest, and the agency shall ensure that federal immigration authorities are notified, either through the agency's participation in the 287(g) program pursuant to the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. § 1357(9)) or by contacting the centralized immigration enforcement division of the department of safety, created in 4-3-2014. Does not apply to a person or entity that does not employ the person operating the commercial motor vehicle and does not have the legal authority to verify employment authorization for that person.
Amends Title 55, Chapter 50, Part 4. A direct employer who knowingly employs and permits a person unlawfully present in the United States to operate a commercial motor vehicle, and any official or employee of any state who recklessly issues a commercial driver license to a person unlawfully present in the United States, are strictly, jointly, and severally liable to any person who suffers personal injury or property damage caused by the unlawfully present person's operation of a commercial motor vehicle.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1086 Discharge of a Firearm
SB 1587 - HB 1706 Enacts 39-17 -1330. A person commits an offense who recklessly discharges a firearm into the air, ground, a body of water, or an object in proximity to the person if the firearm is discharged at a place of public gathering or at a public event where there are at least twenty-five people in attendance at the time of the discharge. A violation is a Class A misdemeanor.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1091 Traffic Enforcement - Megasite of West Tennessee
SB 1772 - HB 1739 Enacts 64-9-116 Notwithstanding 55-8-102 or another law to the contrary, the authority and a law enforcement agency of a county or municipality in which the megasite is located may enter into a written agreement authorizing sworn peace officers of the law enforcement agency to enforce Title 55, Chapters 8, 9, and 10, Parts 1-5, on one or more designated private megasite roadways identified in the agreement. An agreement under this section must be approved by the authority's board of directors and approved by resolution or ordinance, as applicable, of the governing body of the participating county or municipality.
Effective May 22, 2026.
Public Chapter 1100 Defense of Property
SB 1847 - HB 1802 Amends 39-11-614. Specifies that a person who is not engaged in conduct that would constitute a felony or a Class A misdemeanor and who is in a place where the person lawfully resides is justified in using deadly force against another to protect property: (1) If the person would be justified in using force against another under subsection (a) or (b); (2) When and to the degree the person reasonably believes deadly force is immediately necessary to prevent the other's imminent commission of arson, burglary, robbery, aggravated robbery, or aggravated cruelty to animals; (3) The person reasonably believes the property cannot be protected or the other's actions terminated by any other means; and (4) There is an imminent danger to the person or a third person of death, serious bodily injury, or grave sexual abuse; or The use of force other than deadly force to protect or terminate the other's actions would expose the person or a third person to a risk of death, serious bodily injury, or grave sexual abuse.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1104 Assault Against A First Responder
SB 1900 - HB 2428 Enacts 39-13-116(c)(1). Assault against a law enforcement officer or first responder is a Class E felony, and shall be punished by a mandatory fine of ten thousand dollars and a mandatory minimum sentence of sixty days incarceration. The defendant is not eligible for release from confinement until the defendant has served the entire sixty-day mandatory minimum sentence.
Assault against a nurse is a Class A misdemeanor, and shall be punished by a mandatory fine of five thousand dollars and a mandatory minimum sentence of thirty days incarceration. The defendant is not eligible for release from confinement until the defendant has served the entire thirty-day mandatory minimum sentence.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1121 Compensation of Law Enforcement Officers
SB 2177 - HB 2204 Amends Title 38. Requires The Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations (TACIR) to conduct a study of the salaries and other benefits paid to state and local law enforcement officers in this state. TACIR shall publish a report of its findings and recommendations and deliver a copy of the report to the governor, the speaker of the senate, the speaker of the house of representatives, and the legislative librarian no later than January 31, 2027.
Effective May 22. 2026.
- PERSONNEL
Public Chapter 552 Regulation of Employment
SB 674 - HB 900 Amends Title 7 and Title 50 to provide that unless expressly provided by state law, a local government shall not adopt a rule or policy that requires a term or condition to employment that exceeds or conflicts with state or federal law.
Effective March 6, 2026.
Public Chapter 617 Employment Compensation
SB 2024 - HB 1958 Amends Title 50, Chapter 2, Part 1 to provide that any employee who leaves or is discharged from employment must be paid in full all wages earned no later than the next regular pay day, or 21 days following the date of termination, whichever occurs last. If an employee is paid on a commission basis, then compensation earned must be paid by last day of the succeeding month following the date of employment termination.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 772 Government E-Verify Requirements
SB 1922 – HB 1705 Amends Titles 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 12, and 50.
Title 50, Chapter 1, Part 1 is amended by adding a new section to require the state, local governments, local education agencies (LEA), and other agencies of the state to verify work authorization using E-Verify. Requires government employers to keep records of the E-Verify inquiries of verified employees during their employment. The attorney general is authorized to investigate complaints of a local government or LEA who has violated this section. If the attorney general concludes that a local government or LEA has violated this section, then the state may withhold all funding.
Further amends 4-1-429(f)(2) to provide that “local government action” also means an alleged failure to comply with the E-Verify requirements provided above or another law relating to state law immigration enforcement or persons unlawfully present in this state.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 849 Access to Employment Record
SB 1981- HB 2179 Amends Title 50, Chapter 1, Part 3 to add a new section that requires a public safety employer (“employer”) to grant an employee or prospective employee full access to their employment record, including mental health screenings. If a prospective employee is not hired due to the results of a mental health screening, the employer must grant access to the records and allow a prospective employee to submit the results of an alternative, equivalent mental health screening conducted at the prospective employee’s expense. The employer may evaluate the prospective employee based on the results of the alternate mental health screening.
An employee or prospective employee may bring a private cause of action against the employer for failure to grant access to their full employment record for declaratory or injunctive relief. If the employee or prospective employee prevails, the court shall award attorneys’ fees and costs.
Effective April 27, 2026.
Public Chapter 1042 Prevailing Wages on Public Highway Projects
SB 2229 – HB 2541 Amends 12-4-402 to redefine state contract.
Amends 12-4-403 to provide the prevailing wage rate shall be paid to workers on all state highway and non-state construction projects on public highways that are funded with state or federal funds.
Effective May 21, 2026.
Public Chapter 1083 Discriminatory Preferences to Increase DEI
SB 1713 – HB 1664 Amends Titles 4, 5, 6, 7, and 49 to require the executive head of state departments, counties, cities, and metropolitan governments to submit an annual attestation that the entity does not and will not use discriminatory preferences to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion to the comptroller by January 1, 2027 and by January 1 of each year thereafter. The attorney general may investigate any allegation(s) that an entity described above has used discriminatory preferences to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Effective May 22, 2026.
- PURCHASING
Public Chapter 768 Tennessee Procurement Protection Act
SB 377 – HB 548 Amends Title 4, Chapter 56 by adding a new part.
Defines “foreign adversary” as a country designated by the United States department of commerce under 15 CFR 791.4 as of January 1, 2025. These countries include China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, and Venezuelan politician Nicolás Maduro (Maduro Regime).
Defines “foreign adversary company” as a company domiciled, incorporated, headquartered, has its principal place of business, etc., in a foreign adversary; or is controlled by the government or instrumentality of the foreign adversary.
Defines “final product or service” to mean a technology service or software that may contain information and communication technology.
Defines other terms relevant to this part.
Prohibits public purchases of final products or services from a foreign adversary company or through a third-party vendor. Authorizes public purchases of final products or services from a company that has operations in a foreign adversary if the company is not a foreign adversary company.
Further provides that a foreign adversary company is prohibited from submitting bids or proposals to the state or political subdivision of the state for information and communication technology.
A state agency or political subdivision of the state shall require a company that submits a bid or proposal for a contract for information and communication technology to certify that it is not a foreign adversary company, and it is not knowingly selling final products or services of a foreign adversary company to the state or political subdivision of the county.
Provides sharp penalties for submitting false certifications and provides other imperative requirements.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 863 Construction Projects Delivery Methods
SB 2334 – HB 2407 Amends Title 12, Chapter 3, Part 12 to add a new section that provides a local government entity, may use any project delivery method that the local government entity determines most effectively meets the needs of the local government for construction if the local government (1) has a full-time purchasing agent or full-time purchasing employee satisfactory to the comptroller; (2) has governmental revenue of $150,000,000 for metropolitan governments and counties, or $125,000,000 for cities and other local government entities, or is approved by the comptroller after a determination by the comptroller that it is it is in the best interest of the county, (3) uses the competitive proposal process and request for proposal to select the project delivery method, and (4) has rules or policies that authorize such competitive bid process.
“Competitive Proposal Process” means prior to issuing an RFP, the local government publicly discloses the evaluation criteria which is based on best value and the weight assigned to each criterion. Most of the criteria must be based on experience and qualifications, as compared to pricing considerations. The local government must disclose members of the selection committee, and all members must maintain conflict of interest disclosures. The local government must publish evaluation scores and written justification of the scores cast by each member. The local government must create a mechanism for a proposer to file a written protest of the selection decision that must be filed within seven days of the award. The local government must respond to the protest prior to executing a contract. All procurement documents are public records available upon request.
Defines construction manager at-risk, design-bid-build, design-build, qualified local project, and other terms relevant to this Effective April 27, 2026.
- RECORDS
Public Chapter 582 Crime Victim Address Program
SB 1640 - HB 1552 Amends Title 40, Chapter 38, Part 6 relative to the crime victim address confidentiality program. Adds that a sibling may be a co-applicant to the program. Prohibits participation by anyone required to register under the registry of persistent domestic violence offenders. Removes provision requiring that an order of protection must be from a court within this state relative to program requirements for a substitute address.
Effective March 6, 2026.
Public Chapter 686 Immigration and Law Enforcement
SB 1464 - HB 2506 Amends numerous provisions relative to immigration and law enforcement related records.
Adds a new section in Title 7, Chapter 68 that provides that each local government entity and official shall maintain certain information relative to the operational enforcement of federal and state immigration laws as confidential. Provides the name of a federal, state, or local officer, agent, or official participating in federal immigration enforcement activities in this state shall be confidential when the name is accompanied by contact information, a residential address, or other personal identifying information of the officer, agent, or official. With certain exceptions, also provides that the name of a federal, state, or local officer, agent, or official participating in federal immigration enforcement activities in this state shall be confidential if: (i) The release would endanger the safety of the individual during an active or planned enforcement operation; (ii) The individual is currently serving in an undercover capacity; or (iii) A documented threat assessment by the supervising agency head, or a designee, demonstrates a specific, ongoing risk of harm.
With certain exceptions, makes confidential information related to specific future immigration enforcement operational activities, such as the date and time, location, logistics, or strategies of such activities.
Provides that violations are a Class E felony and subject the official to ouster.
Clarifies that the name of a law enforcement officer working undercover is confidential.
Makes criminal the release of any personal information of law enforcement made confidential per 10-7-504(g) (personal information when the chief law enforcement officer determines there is a reason not to disclose).
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 711 Non-citizen Record Request
SB 1970 - HB 1911 Amends 10-7-503 to allow a person who is not a citizen to make a records request for a law enforcement record pertaining solely to that person.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 829 Judicial Nominating Petitions
SB 1720 - HB 1659 Amends 2-5-102 to provide that the addresses on a nominating petition for the office of judge, chancellor, district attorney general, and public defender are confidential and are not open to public inspection, unless requested by a candidate or law enforcement authority in anticipation of or as part of a contest of candidacy or contest of election. A person requesting such information shall certify on a form provided by the coordinator of elections the reason for the request under penalty of perjury.
Effective April 27, 2026.
Public Chapter 837 Homeland Security Related Records
SB 1881 - HB 1640 Amends 10-7-504 to make numerous records of the office of homeland security confidential. Makes confidential all homeland security records involving intelligence sharing and sensitive capabilities that are received from, produced for, or shared with a federal, state, local, tribal, territorial, or private-sector partner that are marked, designated, or accompanied by restrictions indicating the information is sensitive security information, homeland security information, or otherwise restricted from public release by the originating entity, to the extent disclosure would reveal security capabilities, analytical tradecraft, operational methods, or specific threat indicators.
Effective April 27, 2026.
- REGISTERS OF DEEDS
Public Chapter 865 Recording Requirements for Certain Instruments
SB 2353 – HB 2261 Amends 66-24-101(a) to require authenticated signatures of all parties subject to a bond for the conveyance of real or personal property and the expiration date (including the day, month, and year) of such bond for the bond to be eligible for recording.
Further amends 66-24-101(a) to require authenticated signatures of the property owner, or the owner’s attorney-in-fact or court-appointed representative, and the proposed purchaser for all agreements for the conveyance of real property, contracts, memoranda, abstracts, or affidavits for the sale of real property, or similar documents to be eligible for recording. Also requires such documents to include the expiration date (including the day, month, and year).
Enacts a new subsection at 66-24-101 to require all affidavits, excluding those certifying electronic documents, to be sworn to in front of a notary public and contain specific language set forth in the newly enacted subsection.
Effective April 27, 2026.
- RETIREMENT
Public Chapter 658 Reemployment
SB 2018 - HB 1907 Amends numerous provisions relative to TCRS. Provides that records required by a subpoena duces tecum may be produced via electronic submission. Revises provisions relative to the last monthly payment after death. Provides that for a member returning to temporary reemployment with an effective date of retirement between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2027, the member must be treated as receiving an in-service distribution if TCRS discovers that the member did not have a bona fide separation of service. Provides that the member must not continue to receive an in-service distribution and must have a bona fide separation of service before starting another temporary reemployment period.
Effective April 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1110 Credible Service for Period of Disability
SB 2017 – HB 1906 Amends 8-34-625 to provide that subject to the board of trustees, a TCRS member, other than an employee of a political subdivision, who receives temporary disability benefits through a workers' compensation program is entitled to a retirement credit during or after the time of disability when certain requirements are met.
Political subdivisions may adopt the above entitlements for its employees if the governing body passes a resolution allowing its members to establish retirement credit for a period of disability and accepts the liability for its employees to establish this credit in accordance with the requirements of this law.
Upon submission of an application for a retirement credit for a period of disability, the members employer shall provide certification of the period of disability and salary in effect prior to the disability. Contributions by, or on behalf of, a member must be remitted to the retirement in a manner described by the state treasurer based on the member’s salary prior to the disability, plus interest as provided in 8-37-214, if applicable.
A member must not be credited for the temporary disability for creditable service for more than one year per occurrence.
Effective July 1, 2026.
- TAXATION
Public Chapter 825 Mineral Severance Tax
SB 1593 – HB 1517 Amends 67-7-207(b) to increase the time counties have to file their revenue reports from 30 to 90 days after the end of the fiscal year. Also deletes the requirement to send the reports to the comptroller and instead provides that such reports are subject to audit by the comptroller.
Effective April 27, 2026.
- TAXATION – PROPERTY
Public Chapter 583 Division of Property Assessments
SB 1680 – HB 1674 Amends 67-1-202(a)(1). Requires the Division of Property Assessments to supervise and direct all reappraisals and revaluation programs, regardless of the cost of which the state of Tennessee contributes.
Effective March 12, 2026.
Public Chapter 649 Assessment by Comptroller
SB 1673 – HB 1515 Amends 67-5-1301(a). Adds to the list of companies for which the Comptroller of the Treasury may assess for taxation, and for state, county, and municipal purposes, all of the properties within the state owned, and all personal property used or leased, motor bus or truck companies, excluding towing companies, that are either: (1) Companies that operate commercial motor vehicles exclusively authorized for hire holding United States Department of Transportation registrations issued by this state and (2) Subsurface passenger transit companies.
Amends 67-5-1308. Adds new subsection (b) adding that in addition to the information required by subsection (a), the schedules and statements submitted by subsurface passenger transit companies must include: (1) A listing of all tangible personal property that the company owns, uses, or leases in the operation of its business; (2) A description, including the location and the length in miles, of all conduit tunnels and stations owned by the company; (3) The total direct and indirect costs associated with making the company operational; and ( 4) Any other information that the comptroller of the treasury may reasonably require.
Effective April 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 971 Redemption of Property
SB 1983 – HB 1932 Amends 67-5-2701 (a)(1)(C). Provides that the redemption period is determined for each parcel based on the period of delinquency. Once the period of delinquency is established, the redemption period must be set on the following scale: (1) If the period of delinquency is three years or less, the redemption period is one year from the entry of the order confirming the sale; or (2) If the period of delinquency is more than three years, the redemption period is ninety days from the entry of the order confirming the sale.
Effective July 1, 2026. Applies to entries of orders confirming a tax sale of a parcel subject to redemption occurring on or after that date.
Public Chapter 982 Property Tax
SB 2537 – HB 2207 Amends 67-5-212(b)(3)(A). Provides that an application for an exemption from property taxation for property owned by a religious, charitable, scientific, or nonprofit educational organization that is filed within 180 days after the exempt use of the property began will be effective as of the date the exempt use began; or if the application is filed more than 180 days after the exempt use began, the exemption will be effective as of the date of application.
Amends 67-5-603(d). Requires that in the case of damage as a result of a disaster declared by the President of the United States, the annual assessment of an affected building or improvement in a county included in the presidential declaration must be prorated if approved by a two-thirds vote of its governing body by resolution.
Amends 67-5-606(c). Requires that in the case of damage as a result of a disaster declared by the president of the United States, the annual assessment of commercial and industrial tangible personal property that is destroyed, demolished, or substantially damaged as a result of being located in a county included in the presidential declaration shall be prorated if approved by a two-thirds vote of its governing body by resolution.
Amends 67-5-1512(c). Provides any additional tax due following the appeal will accrue interest from the delinquency date at the composite prime rate published by the federal reserve board as of the delinquency date, minus two points, updated annually each subsequent year.
Amends 67-5-1512(d)(1). Provides any tax found refundable following the appeal will accrue interest from the delinquency date at the composite prime rate published by the federal reserve board as of the delinquency date, minus two points, updated annually each subsequent year.
Amends 67-1-401(a)(6)(A). Provides that in a county with a metropolitan form of government, the charter for the metropolitan government may provide for the creation of a metropolitan board of equalization consisting of either five (5) or twelve (12) members.
Amends 67-1-401(a)(6)(B). Provides that If a county with a metropolitan form of government having a population of not less than 470,000 nor more than 500,000, according to the 1980 federal census or any subsequent federal census, creates a board of equalization consisting of twelve (12) members, at least two (2) of the members of the board shall be appointed consistent with subdivision (a)(6)(A).
Effective May 19, 2026.
Public Chapter 1049 Refund of Property Taxes After Final Action
SB 198 – HB 162 Amends 67-5-1809. Provides that, notwithstanding this section or another law to the contrary, a county or municipality that levies a property tax pursuant to this chapter may pay a property tax refund owed to a taxpayer through annual installments applied as credits against the taxpayer's future property taxes if: (1) The county or municipality and the taxpayer agree, pursuant to a written settlement agreement of a property tax dispute or disputes filed pursuant to 67-5-1412 (Appeal of CBOE), 67-5-1501 (Appeal to SBOE), or 67-5-1511 (Final Action of SBOE), that the refund will be applied in accordance with this subsection; (2) The refund is paid in full no later than ten years after the date the written settlement agreement is signed by all parties; (3) Each annual installment that comprises the total refund is applied to the future property taxes of the same parcel or parcels that are the subject of the property tax dispute or disputes; (4) The total refund owed to the taxpayer by the municipality or county is greater than five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000); and (5) The county or municipality is authorized to accept prepayments and partial payments of property taxes under 67-5-1801(e) and 67-5-1808. This law is repealed June 30, 2041.
Amends 67-5-1512(d). Notwithstanding another law to the contrary, a taxpayer may waive any and all penalties and interest on a refund as part of a written settlement agreement entered into pursuant to § 67-5-1809. When the taxpayer agrees to such waiver, all penalties and interest cease accruing, and any interest previously accrued is no longer due to the taxpayer. This law is repealed June 30, 2041.
Effective May 22, 2026.
Public Chapter 1053 Assessment of Low-Income Housing
SB 539 – HB 753 Amends Title 67, Chapter 5, Part 6. Establishes the process for property tax assessment and valuation of multi-unit rental housing that receives a federal, state, or local incentive based on low-income renter restrictions. Applies only in a city or county that adopts this section by ordinance or resolution of the legislative body.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1063 Tax Relief - Elderly Low-Income Homeowners
SB 1326 – HB 1380 Amends 67-5-701. Provides that the collecting official or the division of property assessments is not required to request documentation verifying the applicant's income if: (1) The applicant is eighty years of age or older; (2) One of the following is satisfied: the applicant has applied for and received property tax relief pursuant to this section for the immediately preceding five consecutive years for the same place of residence; or the applicant has been a co-owner of the same parcel for the immediately preceding five consecutive years in which another co-owner applied for and received tax relief under this section for each of those five years; (3) The annual income attributable to the applicant does not exceed the annually adjusted income threshold; and (4) The applicant meets all other non-income-related criteria for eligibility. The collecting official or the division of property assessments may request documentation verifying incomes of other individuals that are attributable to the applicant or documentation related to non-income eligibility criteria. To remain eligible for the tax relief program, the applicant must continue to annually complete and submit the tax relief application to the collecting official.
Effective May 22, 2026.
- TAXATION – SALES
Public Chapter 1014 Metropolitan Governments Local Sales Tax on Food
SB 2160 - HB 2186 Amends 67-6-702 and 705 to authorize metropolitan governments to reduce or eliminate the local sales tax on food. Amends 7-1-113 to eliminate certain moot procedural requirements relative to reducing the membership of the metropolitan council.
Effective May 19, 2026.
Public Chapter 1038 Economically Distressed Counties
SB 2453 - HB 2510 Amends 67-6-104 to extend the deadline related to applying for sales tax revenue generated from a commercial development district and the deadline for the approval of such districts.
Effective May 21, 2026.
- UTILITIES
Public Chapter 803 Drinking Water System Revolving Loan Fund
SB 2175 - HB 2205 Amends 68-221-1205 to add water system projects located in counties having a population of less than 57,000 (according to the 2020 census) to the priority list for consideration for loans from the drinking water system revolving loan fund.
Effective April 23, 2026.
Public Chapter 952 Utility District Consolidations
SB 1595 - HB 1673 Revises provisions relative to a utility district merging/consolidating with another utility. Provides for a public hearing or hearings relative to the consolidation. Provides the governing body of each utility must concur in the consolidation. Provides the petition for consolidation must be submitted to the county mayor(s) who shall enter an order after the hearing(s).
Revises provisions relative to the board of utility regulation ordering the consolidation of an ailing utility with another utility.
Revises provisions relative to continuing education requirements and penalties for noncompliance for the members of the governing body of a utility system.
Amends numerous other provisions relative to utilities.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 961 Electric Utility Infrastructure for Data Centers
SB 2128 - HB 1847 Enacts a new Chapter 70 in Title 7 to provide that, with some exceptions, a local government or electric utility shall not pay or absorb the cost of electrical infrastructure incurred to serve a data center.
Effective May 7, 2026.
Public Chapter 966 West Tennessee River Basin Authority
SB 520 - HB 220 Amends numerous sections in Title 64, Chapter 1, Part 11 relative to the powers, duties and tasks of the West Tennessee River Basin Authority. Expands the service area of the authority, with certain limits and requirements. Amends area where counties may impose taxes on real property for the authority’s programs to the authority’s service area. Amends provisions relative to bond financing.
Effective May 13, 2026.
Public Chapter 1055 Necessary Work on Private Property
SB 639 - HB 1259 Amends 7-35-401 to allow utilities to work on what would have been a “project for a private purpose” under certain circumstances. Provides that a “project for a private purpose" does not include the renewal or replacement or assessment of: (a) Private water lines behind a utility-owned meter when such rehabilitative maintenance or construction is deemed necessary by a municipality, utility district, metropolitan government, or other public entity to address lead service lines or galvanized requiring replacement lines located on private property, but only for the portion of the service line extending from the utility-owned meter to the exterior building envelope of the structure served for the purpose of addressing serious health issues; or (b) Sewage lines on private property when such rehabilitative maintenance or construction is deemed necessary by a municipality, utility district, metropolitan government, or other public entity because excessive infiltration and inflow from groundwater or rainwater is resulting in sanitary sewer overflows or other serious health or system capacity issues.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 1113 Wastewater connections
SB 2057 - HB 2385 Amends 7-82-710 to provide that a utility system, as defined in 7-82-701(b), that provides wastewater service shall provide a connection to the wastewater service upon request of a real property owner when the utility system: (1) Has an existing gravity sewer line located on or adjacent to the owner's real property within the street right-of-way, public access easement, or public utility easement; or (2) Has an existing sewer force main located on or adjacent to the owner's real property that can be accessed using technology designed for such an application.
Effective May 22, 2026.
Public Chapter 1116 Electric Utilities Serving Multiple Localities
SB 2102 - HB 2592 Enacts a new Title 7, Chapter 70, Part 1 relative to board appointments of certain electric utilities serving more than one local government. Defines an electric utility as follows: (A) a utility that provides electric utility services to the public and is owned by a municipality: (i) Having a population of not less than four hundred eighty-five thousand (485,000), according to the 2020 federal census or any subsequent federal census; or (ii) Located in a county having a population of not less than four hundred eighty-five thousand (485,000), according to the 2020 federal census or any subsequent federal census; (B) Includes an electric utility that provides electric utility services: (i) Outside of this state; and (ii) Authorized under Chapter 52 of Title 7, or another law, including, but not limited to, a city charter or private act; and (C) Does not include an energy authority or utility authority created pursuant to the Municipal Energy Authority Act, compiled in Chapter 36 of Title 7, or a private act of the general assembly. Provides that such electric utilities must allow for board appointments from outside localities if they reach certain customer service thresholds.
Effective May 22, 2026.
Public Chapter 1122 Construction of Utility Infrastructure
SB 2213 - HB 2381 Amends 7-51-2703 to provide that if a material that is required for the construction of the utility infrastructure is available only from the utility, then the utility must provide that material for the customer's or approved contractor's use at the same price as the utility paid for the material. The utility shall not require the customer or approved contractor to pay taxes on the materials above the amount of taxes that the utility paid when acquiring the materials. The utility shall provide an itemized statement of the cost of materials sold to a customer or approved contractor. Amends 7-51-2702 to provide that a customer/contractor installing utility infrastructure does not have to install street lights. Amends 7-51-2704 regarding fees charged by the utility (and places a cap on them).
Effective July 1, 2026.
- WORKERS’ COMPENSATION
Public Chapter 705 Worker’s Compensation
SB 1861 - HB 1630 Amends 50-6-208 to provide that funds deposited into a special fund called the “subsequent injury and vocational recovery fund” that can only be used for certain purposes, can now also be used for costs associated with implementing and maintaining a computer system for the bureau of workers’ compensation. Makes additional related changes to workers’ compensation.
Effective July 1, 2026.
Public Chapter 845 Attorneys’ Fees and Costs
SB 1981- HB 2179 Amends 50-6-226(d) to provide that a court may award reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs, including court reporter expenses and expert witness fees when:
- The employer fails to furnish appropriate medical treatment to an employee as required in the settlement, order, or judgment; or
- The employer unreasonably denies a claim or fails to initiate benefits the employee is entitled to under 50-6-204 and 50-6-210.
When, at an expedited hearing, the judge finds that the employer unreasonably denied or failed to timely initiate benefits, the court may award attorneys’ fees and costs at that time. If the judge finds the unreasonableness is clear and convincing, then any award of attorneys’ fees must not be deferred to the compensation hearing.
Effective July 1, 2026.
- PART II - PUBLIC ACTS OF LOCAL APPLICATION
- DAVIDSON
Public Chapter 1138 Alcoholic Beverages
SB 2452 – HB 2341 Amends 57-4-102(31) to authorize consumption of alcoholic beverages and beer on the premises of a temporary special event zone located within a central business improvement district in Davidson County, subject to approval of a local ordinance establishing such zone.
Effective May 22, 2026.
- GIBSON
Public Chapter 618 Utility Districts
SB 2313 – HB 2390 Amends 7-82-307 to provide that utility commissioners may serve more than two consecutive terms.
Effective March 25, 2026.
- HAMILTON
Public Chapter 927 Finley Stadium
SB 211 – HB 397 Amends 67-6-103 to reallocate apportionments of sales tax revenue, beginning January 1, 2027, in an amount equal to the amount of state and local sales tax revenue, excluding any portion of local sales taxes that otherwise would be allocated for school purposes, derived from the sale of admissions to all events occurring within the stadium and from all sales of food, drinks, merchandise, authorized goods and products, parking charges, and related services sold on the premises of the stadium or on, or adjacent to, the premises of a related ancillary facility, including a pavilion, in conjunction with an event occurring at the stadium.
Effective May 7, 2026.
- OVERTON
Public Chapter 860 County Fiscal Procedure Law of 1957
SB 2276- HB 2160 Amends 5-13-103(f)(1) to require county legislative body approval to terminate or discharge the director of accounts and budgets. Requires 2/3 vote of the county legislative body for this requirement to become effective.
Effective April 27, 2026.
- SEVIER
Public Chapter 1034 Smokies Stadium
SB 2633 – HB 2496 Amends 7-8-114, 67-4-3002, and 67-6-103 relative to tax revenues at the property formerly home to the Smokies AA Baseball Stadium.
Effective May 7, 2026.
- SHELBY
Public Chapter 937 Violent Criminal Court Act
SB 846 – HB 1268 Amends 16-2-506 to provide that effective September 1, 2026, there are created in the thirtieth judicial district two (2) additional criminal courts to be designated as violent criminal courts. The governor shall appoint a person to serve as judge of each of the violent criminal courts, and each person so appointed shall serve in that capacity until September 1, 2028, or until the person's successor is elected and qualified. At the August 2028 general election, the qualified voters of the thirtieth judicial district shall elect one (1) person to serve as judge of each violent criminal court. The person so elected at the August 2028 general election shall hold office until September 1, 2030, or until the person's successor is elected and qualified. Thereafter, the judges of the violent criminal courts shall be elected for a full eight-year term. Provides that the presiding judge is directed to address caseload backlogs in the criminal courts by transferring cases involving criminal offenses set forth in 40-35-501(aa), (bb), and (cc) to the violent criminal courts for disposition.
Effective May 7, 2026.
- WILLIAMSON
Public Chapter 718 Hospitals
SB 2194 - HB 2337 Amends 48-68-206 to authorize certain counties to use proceeds from the sale of a county-owned hospital in an unrestricted manner, such as to pay down county debt. Only applies to hospitals established solely for the benefit of a county government and that are valued at more than $500 million dollars. Must be approved by a 2/3 vote of the county legislative body to become effective in a particular county.
Effective April 16, 2026.
- PART III - PRIVATE ACTS
- CHEATHAM
Private Chapter 33 Schools
SB 2695 - HB 2625 Enacts Private Acts of 2026, Chapter 33. Creates a new school district in Cheatham County.
Effective upon approval by a 2/3 vote of the county legislative body.
Private Chapter 34 Cheatham County Development Tax
SB 2696 - HB 2626 Amends Private Acts of 1997, Chapter 28. Changes the allocation of the tax.
Effective upon approval by a 2/3 vote of the county legislative body.
- HENRY
Private Chapter 47 Mineral Severance Tax
SB 2701 - HB 2639 Enacts Private Acts of 2026, Chapter 47. Authorizes the levy of a mineral severance tax in Henry County.
Effective upon approval by a 2/3 vote of the county legislative body.
- HUMPHREYS
Private Chapter 38 Humphreys County Water Authority
SB 1566 - HB 1500 Enacts Private Acts of 2026, Chapter 38. Creates the Humphreys County Water Authority.
Effective upon approval by a 2/3 vote of the county legislative body.
- ROANE
Private Chapter 40 County Mayor
SB 2176 - HB 1717 Repeals Private Acts of 2007, Chapter 1. Repeals the act that designated the chief executive officer of the county as the county executive.
Effective upon approval by a 2/3 vote of the county legislative body.
- RUTHERFORD
Private Chapter 52 Rutherford County Highway Commission
SB 2720 - HB 2653 Repeals Private Acts of 1951, Chapter 55. Repeals and recreates the provisions establishing the Rutherford County Highway Commission and County Highway Road Superintendent.
Effective upon approval by a 2/3 vote of the county legislative body.
- TIPTON
Private Chapter 39 Environmental Court
SB 1483 - HB 1645 Enacts Private Acts of 2026, Chapter 39. Authorizes the legislative body of Tipton County to designate a division of the county's general sessions court as the environmental court.
Effective upon approval by a 2/3 vote of the county legislative body.
- UNICOI
Private Chapter 55 Mineral Severance Tax
SB 2719 - HB 2655 Amends Private Acts of 1982, Chapter 213. Aligns the county's mineral severance tax with the tax amounts prescribed under state law.
Effective upon approval by a 2/3 vote of the county legislative body.
- WEAKLEY
Private Chapter 44 County Highway Supervisor
SB 2689 - HB 2627 Enacts Private Acts of 2026, Chapter 44. Clarifies that the county highway superintendent of the county highway department continue in such elected office pursuant to qualifications established under state law.
Effective upon approval by a 2/3 vote of the county legislative body.
- WILLIAMSON
Private Chapter 37 Hospital District
SB 2708 - HB 2646 Amends Private Acts of 1957, Chapter 107. Authorizes the board of the Williamson County hospital district to sell real property owned or operated by the hospital district and lease substantially all of the facilities owned or operated by the hospital district if approved by the Williamson County board of commissioners.
Effective upon approval by a 2/3 vote of the county legislative body.