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General Assembly passes $59.8 billion budget

 Supermajority prioritizes investments in education, public safety and infrastructure

The House and Senate chambers on Wednesday marked the fulfillment of their constitutional duty by passing a balanced $59.8 billion budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year. This year’s spending plan, which recognizes a 2% growth rate, reaffirms the General Assembly’s commitment to conservative budgeting while prioritizing the needs of Tennesseans across the state. The balanced budget advances the state’s efforts to improve public safety, invest in infrastructure, advance education, support rural health care, and increase disaster relief funding for Hurricane Helene recovery. 

“Our focus is on lasting financial strength and stability for the Volunteer State,” said House Finance, Ways and Means Chair Gary Hicks, R-Rogersville. “This budget reaffirms our commitment to Tennesseans to keep our state on a conservative path to greater prosperity. We have tightened our belts, kept government spending low, and addressed a diverse range of needs, benefiting all Tennesseans.”

The legislative amendment makes fiscally responsible adjustments to the administration’s initial budget proposal by shifting $20 million in recurring allocations to nonrecurring, allowing the state to manage long-term spending obligations better. 

“This budget reflects Tennessee’s strong commitment to responsible leadership and forward-thinking investment,” said House Speaker Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville. “We’re addressing core priorities like education, public safety, and transportation while maintaining our conservative fiscal principles. It’s a budget that balances our needs today with a vision for tomorrow.”

Additionally, the General Assembly repurposed funds for legislative initiatives to support critical community needs, while maintaining Gov. Bill Lee’s major priorities. 

Grant pool for critical community services: In the 2025-26 budget, the General Assembly created a $42.5 million grant pool, with nonrecurring funds, for important emergency and community services. The grants include: 

• $20 million for volunteer fire departments
• $5 million for rescue squads
• $5 million for emergency medical services
• $5 million for senior centers
• $5 million for local museums for capital improvements
• $2 million for courthouse restoration
• $500,000 for Second Harvest Food Bank 

Disaster relief for Hurricane Helene: The General Assembly continued to support victims of Hurricane Helene by providing $26 million nonrecurring for disaster relief for Helene victims in Northeast Tennessee and $20 million nonrecurring for local match funds for FEMA disaster relief.

Rural hospital support and health care investments: Lawmakers made significant investments in hospitals by using TennCare Shared Savings to provide an additional $78 million to help hospitals, particularly in rural areas, with uncompensated care and $4 million to complete capital projects at county health departments.  

Additional health care investments include:

• $4 million recurring to increase pediatric dental rates
• $3 million nonrecurring to the Adult Healthcare Safety Net
• $500,000 nonrecurring to assist those living with epilepsy and their caregivers statewide
• $1.4 million recurring to provide scholarships for the joint public-private partnership in the Medical School Early Acceptance Program between MTSU and Meharry Medical College
• $1 million nonrecurring to Live Like Lou Foundation for ALS research
• $1 million nonrecurring for Volunteers in Medicine

Safety and security improvements: The legislative amendment provides additional allocations in safety and security:

• $5.4 million nonrecurring to improve campus safety and security at the University of Memphis
• $500,000 nonrecurring to establish and operate the UT Law Enforcement Innovation Center
• $400,000 nonrecurring to support the East Tennessee Regional Forensic Facility and Training Program

Major investments secured: In addition to the adjustments made to fund legislative priorities, the budget maintains important investments proposed by Gov. Bill Lee, including: 

• $1 billion into the road fund to address the state’s transportation infrastructure needs
• $62.7 million for K-12 infrastructure and facilities funding
• $244 million to strengthen education through the Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA) formula growth, including teacher pay raises
• $198.4 million for teacher bonuses 
• $35.6 million investment into the Rainy-Day Fund, bringing the state’s reserves to nearly $2.2 billion, the largest in Tennessee history 
• $25 million for grants to recruit new business to Tennessee and support workforce development

Expanding choices for parents:

The General Assembly in January passed historic legislation empowering parents with the freedom to choose the right school for their child and have a say in where their tax dollars are spent, regardless of income or zip code. This school choice initiative invests $145.9 million in Education Freedom Scholarships.

• $145.9 million for Education Freedom Scholarships (the General Assembly previously appropriated $144.2 million in the 2024 legislative session)
• $77.2 million for K-12 infrastructure directed from existing sports wagering revenue

Tennessee is among the lowest-taxed states in the nation and collects zero income tax. Tennessee holds the highest bond rating issued by all three of the nation’s credit rating agencies, which reflects extreme confidence in the Volunteer State’s preparedness in meeting financial commitments in tough economic times. 

Republicans hold local governments accountable

The House this week passed a proposal by House Speaker Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville, to hold local governments accountable by withholding state funds for evading or ignoring state law or the Tennessee Constitution.

 House Bill 1097, carried in the House by Deputy Speaker Jason Zachary, R-Knoxville, will authorize the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office (AG) to investigate a local government suspected of violating state law. If the local government refuses to correct its violation within 60 days, the state could withhold funding. 

“This bill promotes more transparency in how laws are enforced and applied at all levels of government, rather than allowing unconstitutional local policies to stand until challenged in expensive lawsuits,” Zachary said. “The bill ensures accountability that state funds are not used to support unlawful policies, reinforcing uniformity and responsible government throughout Tennessee.” 

State funding would be restored if a local government corrects its violation and begins following state law. Arizona has a similar process to hold local governments accountable. Local governments would also have the ability to challenge the findings of the AG by filing a special action. The companion version of House Bill 1097 is still advancing through the Senate. 

Legislature seeks to protect children against exploitation

The Tennessee General Assembly this week approved legislation strengthening measures against child abuse and exploitation. The Tennessee Protection of Children Against Sexual Exploitation Act, sponsored by State Rep. Brock Martin, R-Huntingdon, will prohibit electronic communication service providers from notifying customers about search warrants or subpoenas related to ongoing investigations under Tennessee’s obscenity laws. 

“This puts our (investigations) at risk and endangers law enforcement when they enter that environment as the suspect knows they’re coming and can delete critical data,” Martin said. “This bill will help close that loophole.” 

Child sex exploitation is on the rise with an increase in material being generated by artificial intelligence, according to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). Reports to the NCMEC tip line of online child abuse rose by more than 12% in 2023 compared with the previous year, surpassing 36 million.  

The legislation is intended to help law enforcement investigate serious crimes such as sexual exploitation, aggravated sexual exploitation and especially aggravated sexual exploitation of minors without alerting suspects or interfering with the investigation. House Bill 874 takes effect immediately upon Gov. Bill Lee’s signature. 

GOP approves proposal to ease voting rights restoration

The General Assembly this week approved legislation by State Rep. Bud Hulsey, R-Kingsport, to ease the process of restoring a person’s right to vote in Tennessee after a felony conviction. 

House Bill 445 will allow for the restoration of one or more rights of citizenship, including the right to vote and to serve on a jury, when certain conditions are met. This legislation ensures suffrage can be regained without the right to possess a firearm reinstated.

“The right to participate in the American electoral process is essential for our nation’s continued prosperity,” Hulsey said. “Tennessee takes this civic duty seriously by ensuring our elections are the most secure, free and fair in the nation. Part of the penalty for committing a serious crime in this state includes forfeiting certain rights of citizenship. This legislation will streamline the voting rights restoration process for those who have turned their lives around and paid their debt to society.” 

People convicted of infamous crimes, which include any felony, are barred from voting in Tennessee elections. Current Tennessee law includes a two-step process that necessitates a pardon or restoration of full citizenship rights to regain the ability to vote, in addition to meeting eligibility requirements, including paying restitution, court costs, and child support. The proposed legislation doesn’t change Tennessee’s eligibility requirements but allows for people to regain suffrage without full restoration of rights. Additionally, the bill provides the attorney general standing to challenge a person’s restoration eligibility. 

Current law consists of several different processes for people convicted during various periods. House Bill 445 will ensure everyone follows the same citizenship rights restoration process by petitioning the court. It also removes the presumption that restoration of rights should be granted upon the filing of a petition, instead making it a preponderance of the evidence that a petitioner is eligible.

The Administrative Office of the Courts, in consultation with the Tennessee Secretary of State and other entities, will be directed to develop a form to be used to petition for restoration of citizenship rights. People convicted of murder, rape, treason, voter fraud, and sexual crimes against minors will never be able to have their voting rights restored in Tennessee. House Bill 445 will immediately take effect upon Gov. Bill Lee’s signature. 

House passes Women’s Safety and Protection Act

 The House this week passed legislation to protect women and girls across Tennessee. The Women’s Safety and Protection Act, sponsored by State Rep. Gino Bulso, R-Brentwood, seeks toprotect women and girls against sexual assault, harassment and violence in public higher education institutions, domestic violence shelters, juvenile detention facilities and correctional facilities.

“This bill is part of our continuing effort to protect the privacy and security of girls and women in private spaces,” Bulso said on the House floor Tuesday.

House Bill 571 requires detention centers, domestic violence centers, correctional facilities, and higher educational institutions to segregate changing facilities, showering facilities and restrooms by sex. People who encounter an individual of the opposite sex in facilities described in this legislation have a private cause of action if the facility intentionally allowed a person to enter or failed to take reasonable steps to prohibit that person from entering a restroom of the opposite sex. 

The legislation does not prohibit single-occupancy restrooms, which include family restrooms. Additionally, House Bill 571 defines various terms in state law, including male and female. Sex, as defined by this bill, means immutable biological sex and does not include gender identity. The companion version of House Bill 571 is scheduled for a final vote in the Senate on April 21. 

House honors NASA astronaut Captain Butch Wilmore

 The Tennessee House of Representatives on Wednesday honored Captain Barry “Butch” Wilmore following his historic 286-day mission on the International Space Station (ISS). House Joint Resolution 517, sponsored by State Rep. Ryan Williams, R-Cookeville, recognizes Wilmore for his Volunteer Spirit, patriotism and invaluable contributions to America’s space flight program. A native Tennessean, Wilmore embarked on what should have been an eight-day mission to space aboard a Boeing Starliner with fellow astronaut Sunita “Suni” Williams. The spacecraft experienced technical issues, extending the week-long journey to nine months. Wilmore presented House Speaker Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville, with a Tennessee state flag that he flew while aboard the ISS.  

General Assembly increases access to recess for TN students

The General Assembly on Tuesday approved legislation sponsored by State Rep. Scott Cepicky, R-Culleoka, that seeks to improve academic outcomes and student well-being in Tennessee public schools by increasing time for physical activity. House Bill 85 will require school districts to provide at least 40 minutes of recess to elementary students each day, an increase from the current mandate of a minimum of 15 minutes per day and 130 minutes a week.  

“Republicans are working hard to ensure Tennessee students receive the highest quality education in the nation, and providing adequate time for physical activity is essential to delivering on this priority,” Cepicky said. “The evidence overwhelmingly demonstrates that increasing access to unstructured, screen-free recess improves academic outcomes, physical health and mental well-being. This common-sense legislation is an important step in giving children in the Volunteer State a more balanced and productive school day.” 

Recess under Cepicky’s legislation includes unstructured outdoor play for students, with an exception for dangerous weather. It does not include physical education courses or time when students are permitted to use electronic devices. House Bill 85 prohibits withholding physical activity as a form of punishment for students. 

More than 40% of Tennessee students were overweight or obese in the 2022-23 academic year, according to a report from the Tennessee Department of Health and the Tennessee Department of Education. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that recess can enhance memory, attention span, concentration, and social and emotional development. House Bill 85 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk. Upon his signature, it will take effect July 1, 2025, to be implemented in the 2025-26 academic year. 

Republicans secure voters’ right to county primaries 

Legislation ensuring county political candidates are chosen by voters through primary elections was approved by the General Assembly this week. House Bill 855, sponsored by State Rep. Lee Reeves, R-Franklin, requires political parties to use primary elections, not conventions or caucuses, to nominate candidates for county partisan races such as county commissioners or school board members. 

“This bill ensures Tennessee voters, not party insiders, choose their candidates,” Reeves said. “I’m proud to stand with the busy parents, deployed service members, first responders, senior citizens and other Tennesseans who want their voice heard.” 

Any statewide political party that used non-primary methods to nominate candidates in 2022 or 2024 may continue doing so for county offices. The Volunteer State ranks No. 1 in election integrity and continues to break voter turnout records, with a historic 3.08 million votes cast in the Nov. 5 presidential election. House Bill 855 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature.

Additional protections for children in custody cases approved 

The General Assembly has approved legislation expanding Abrial’s Law,further protecting children while providing transparency and accountability in custody cases. 

House Bill 1255, sponsored by State Rep. Rebecca Alexander, R-Jonesborough, requires judges to issue written findings on past abuse or visitation restrictions and include their relevance to the parenting plan. It also ensures the non-abusive parent is not held financially responsible for supervised visitation ordered for the abusive parent. 

“At its core, this legislation is about protecting children, ensuring fair and transparent custody decisions and holding the right people accountable,” Alexander said. 

Alexander championed passage of Abrial’s Law in 2024 to provide crucial protections for victims of child abuse who are entangled in their parents’ custody battle. The law closed several statutory loopholes that led to children being returned to abusive homes. 

House Bill 1255 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature. It will take effect July 1.  

Bill calls for report on illegal alien crime in Tennessee

 Legislation passed by the General Assembly this week will require the newly created Centralized Immigration Enforcement Division (CIED) to submit a report by July 1, 2026, on criminal activity involving illegal aliens.

House Bill 833, sponsored by State Rep. Kelly Keisling, R-Byrdstown, directs CIED to assess criminal enterprises connected to illegal aliens and analyze any threats they may pose.

“This bill ensures we have the facts,” Keisling said. “By requiring this report, we’re giving law enforcement the information they need to identify and respond to criminal activity connected to illegal immigration.”

The CIED, established during this year’s special session, may consult with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation but must avoid including details that could interfere with ongoing investigations or legal proceedings. 

House Bill 833 builds on a 2024 law, House Bill 2774, sponsored by State Rep. Jake McCalmon, R-Franklin, which launched a statewide initiative to track the cost and impact of illegal immigration on crime through 2032.

The first report, issued in January by the Tennessee District Attorney Generals Conference, compiled just three months of data from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31, 2024. The report showed 3,858 criminal charges were made by 73 of the state’s 95 counties. Driving under the influence (DUI) was the most common offense, with 654 violations reported, followed by driving without a license and other traffic violations. Nearly 450 arrests were for violent offenses, including 182 assault and 107 aggravated assault offenses. Illegal aliens were accused of 11 homicides statewide during the three-month reporting period. 

While House Bill 2774 mandates ongoing data collection, House Bill 833 focuses on a one-time report specifically tied to criminal enterprise and activity involving illegal aliens.

The CIED oversees coordination between state and federal immigration agencies, manages enforcement plans, distributes grants and reports annually on immigration issues. 

House Bill 833 now heads to the governor’s desk for his signature. 

Foster children’s bill of rights approved 

Legislation outlining specific rights for foster children within the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services (DCS) system was approved by the General Assembly this week. 

House Bill 1359, sponsored by State Rep. Mary Littleton, R-Dickson, codifies six rights into state law, including education, appropriate care, safe environment, right to report violations, health care and confidential communications. 

 “This legislation empowers foster children by ensuring they are educated about the fundamental rights they deserve,” Littleton said. “It promotes safer environments and gives children the confidence to speak up when their rights are violated.” 

Littleton partnered with a young woman who grew up in Tennessee’s foster care system and used her personal experience to craft this legislation alongside other lawmakers and DCS. 

The department will be required to create age-appropriate materials, with help from former foster children, to explain these rights to children coming into their custody and those already in their care.  

The department must provide these materials to the child and explain the rights to them within 30 days of entering care and annually during permanency hearings. The materials would also be reviewed every five years and revised, if necessary. 

This bill requires training on these rights for any new and current DCS employees involved with foster children. 

House Bill 1359 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature. It will take effect July 1. 

Republicans recognize Riley Gaines

 The House and Senate Republican Caucuses on Thursday welcomed Sumner County native and former University of Kentucky swimmer Riley Gaines. House Majority Whip Johnny Garrett,R-Goodlettsville,and Senate Speaker Pro Tempore Ferrell Haile, R-Gallatin, presented House Joint Resolution 33, recognizing Gaines’ work to protect girls and women’s sports. 

Gaines in 2022 placed fifth in the nation while swimming for the University of Kentucky in the 200-yard NCAA freestyle championship, tying with a transgender-identifying swimmer. She has since advocated on behalf of women and girls across the country, including by protesting the 2023 NCAA Convention to encourage the organization to keep biological men out of women’s sports.

Briefly…

Child abuse penalties: The House of Representatives this week approved legislation to increase the penalty for child abuse from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony. House Bill 45, sponsored by State Rep. Jake McCalmon, R-Franklin, would apply to someone who knowingly harms a child between the ages of nine and 17 years old. The Senate companion version of the legislation is scheduled for a final vote on April 21. 

Child care: The House this week approved legislation to increase access to child care in the Volunteer State. House Bill 1175, sponsored by State Rep. Ryan Williams, R-Cookeville, will require local education agencies (LEA) to submit to the Tennessee Department of Human Services a list of all underutilized or vacant property. The legislation allows child care agencies operating in a local school district a first or second right of refusal to lease or purchase property listed by the LEA. House Bill 1175 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk to be signed into law.

Military recruiting: Legislation passed by State Rep. Scott Cepicky, R-Culleoka, will require Tennessee public high schools to provide access to official recruiting representatives of the United States armed forces at least once a month during student lunch periods. The bill will also allow recruiters the opportunity to present additional information to interested students at least once every other month. House Bill 665 seeks to make students aware of the opportunities afforded by the military. The bill now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk to become law.  

Adoptions: The General Assembly this week approved legislation that seeks to build on Republicans’ pro-family priorities. House Bill 1180, sponsored by State Rep. Andrew Farmer, R-Sevierville, will authorize people filing adoption proceedings for more than one child to file a single petition for adoption and pay one filing fee. Current law requires a separate petition and a separate filing fee if a Tennessean attempts to adopt more than one child at the same time. House Bill 1180 will immediately take effect upon Gov. Bill Lee’s signature. 

Firearm manufacturers: The General Assembly this week approved legislation further shielding Tennessee’s weapons industry from civil liability. House Bill 873, sponsored by State Rep. Monty Fritts, R-Kingston, protects firearm, ammunition and weapons manufacturers, dealers and sellers from out-of-state or foreign lawsuits tied to criminal misuse of their products. The bill expands a law by Fritts in 2023 that aligned state protections with the federal Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA). Lawsuits are allowed only if harm can be directly linked to actions like selling a defective product or criminal misconduct. The bill now heads to the governor’s desk for his signature.

Nuclear Family Month: A proposal to designate June 2025 as Nuclear Family Month in Tennessee was approved by the House this week. House Joint Resolution 182, sponsored by State Rep. Bud Hulsey, R-Kingsport, recognizes the importance of the nuclear family, consisting of one husband, one wife and any biological, adopted or foster children, in the formation of Tennessee and the United States. Hulsey proposed the legislation at the request of a young college student in his district, who wrote the resolution. House Joint Resolution 182 will now be considered in the Senate.

Penalties for sex offenders: Legislation to increase the penalties for individuals convicted of aggravated sexual battery was approved by the General Assembly this week. House Bill 1352, sponsored by State Rep. Mary Littleton, R-Dickson, requires a person convicted of the Class B felony offense of aggravated sexual battery to be sentenced as a Range II offender if the victim was a minor, mentally defective, mentally incapacitated or physically helpless. This classification carries a 12- to 20-year prison sentence. House Bill 1352 now heads to the governor’s desk for his signature. 

Child abuse protections: Legislation protecting children from abusers and setting clear requirements for potential reunification was approved by the General Assembly this week. House Bill 1360, sponsored by State Rep. Mary Littleton, R-Dickson, expands the definition of child abuse to include minors who witness abuse of another child in their family or household. It also requires parents whose children were removed due to abuse and placed in foster care to make sufficient progress on the permanency plan, including domestic violence counseling, for reunification to be considered. The bill further mandates mental health counseling for affected children. House Bill 1360 now heads to the governor’s desk for his signature. 

Life, liberty and pursuit of happiness: The General Assembly this week passed legislation designating June, July and August in the Volunteer State as months celebrating core American values. House Bill 327, sponsored by State Rep. Gino Bulso, R-Brentwood, will permanently designate June as Celebration of Life Month, July as Celebration of Liberty Month, and August as Celebration of the Pursuit of Happiness Month in Tennessee. The month of June was chosen as the Celebration of Life Month to commemorate the date the United States Supreme Court decided Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which overturned Roe v. Wade. July was selected as Celebration of Liberty Month to recognize the month when the United States gained its independence, and August was chosen as Celebration of Pursuit of Happiness Month to commemorate when Tennessee children return to the classroom. House Bill 327 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk to be signed into law. 

Threats of mass violence: House Bill 1314, filed by House Majority Leader William Lamberth, R-Portland, and guided in the House by Assistant Majority Leader Mark Cochran, R-Englewood, will make knowingly threatening mass violence by any means of communication a Class E felony offense. Another person must reasonably deem it a legitimate threat that could lead to the death or injury of four or more people. The penalty would be enhanced to a Class D felony offense if the threat is made toward a school, church, government, or live performance or event. Similarly, the penalty would be enhanced if the defendant had prior convictions for similar offenses or if the defendant took a substantial step toward acting on the threat. Finally, House Bill 1314 creates a Class B misdemeanor offense for posting on a public website the phone number or home address of another person with ill intent, a practice commonly referred to as “doxing.” If someone acts on this information, the penalty could be enhanced to a Class A misdemeanor. The companion version of House Bill 1314 is scheduled for a final vote in the Senate on April 21. 

Domestic violence victims: House Bill 580, sponsored by State Rep. Clay Doggett, R-Pulaski, will provide standards for global positioning system (GPS) monitoring companies that provide services in Tennessee for domestic violence arrests involving aggravated assault. The legislation defines a qualified electronic monitoring provider and lists out specific requirements to become a provider, including proof of general liability coverage, 24/7 monitoring, and requirements for directors and employees. Companies will also be required to be approved by a local government entity in Tennessee to provide services. Additionally, the legislation requires an arresting officer to communicate with the victim during monitoring. House Bill 580 builds on the Debbie and Marie Domestic Violence Protection Act that the Tennessee General Assembly passed in 2024, requiring aggravated assault suspects in certain domestic violence cases to wear a GPS system if they are released on bond. The bill now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk to be signed into law. 

Protections for pregnant mothers: The General Assembly approved legislation this week clarifying Tennessee’s current protections for a pregnant mother if her life or a major bodily function is in danger.House Bill 990, sponsored by State Rep. Bryan Terry, R-Murfreesboro, clarifies language in the Human Life Protection Act of 2019 to better define the conditions that allow for medical intervention in order to save the mother’s life. This legislation defines inevitable abortion, commonly known as preterm labor or cervical insufficiency. It also further clarifies conditions that may cause a serious risk of substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function, like pre-viable preterm premature rupture of membranes (pPPROM), severe preeclampsia, and others that can result in uterine rupture or loss of fertility. House Bill 990 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature. 

Protecting children from predators: The General Assembly approved legislation criminalizing the use of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) to produce sexual content involving minors. House Bill 769, sponsored by State Rep. Mary Littleton, R-Dickson, makes it a criminal offense to knowingly possess, distribute, or produce technology, software or digital tools designed to generate such material. Predators have used GAI to manipulate innocent images of real children into sexually explicit content, commonly referred to as deepfakes. Penalties include a Class E felony offense for possession, a Class C felony offense for distribution and a Class B felony offense for production. House Bill 769 heads to the governor’s desk for his signature.

Merit-based pay: The Tennessee legislature this week passed a proposal to allow exceptional teachers in Tennessee to be rewarded. House Bill 759, sponsored by House Speaker Pro Tempore Pat Marsh, R-Shelbyville, would give local school districts the ability to adopt and implement a merit-based pay structure for teachers. The legislation would allow districts to award additional compensation to high-performing teachers through a one-time bonus or a salary increase. Districts could use state and local education funding received through the Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA) to reward exceptional educators. The bill now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature. It will immediately take effect and be implemented beginning in the 2025-26 school year. 

Equal opportunity: The House of Representatives approved legislation on Thursday prohibiting government entities and public universities from making hiring decisions based on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The Dismantle DEI in Employment Act, sponsored by State Rep. Aron Maberry, R-Clarksville, bars local governments and public universities from hiring individuals based on race, religion, sex, national origin, age or disability. It applies to county, municipal and metropolitan governments. A one-year exemption is available if compliance would result in the loss of federal funding. Entities must submit a written request to the Comptroller of the Treasury’s office and reapply annually if needed. House Bill 622 is expected to be considered in the Senate on April 21.

Government efficiency: In an effort to reform anti-discrimination enforcement and increase government efficiency, House Majority Whip Johnny Garrett, R-Goodlettsville, this week passed legislation that would dissolve the Tennessee Human Rights Commission (HRC) and shift the department’s responsibilities to the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office (AG). House Bill 910 creates the Civil Rights Enforcement Division within the Office of the AG, the state’s top law enforcement agency. The bill increases penalties for malicious harassment and upholds protections against discrimination in housing, real estate and education. The companion version of House Bill 910 is still advancing through the Senate.

Free speech protections: A Republican bill to protect Tennesseans from coerced speech was approved by the House this week. House Bill 1270, sponsored by Assistant Majority Leader Mark Cochran, R-Englewood, will ensure no student or contractor in school districts, charter schools, and public institutions of higher education is required to use preferred pronouns if it is not consistent with an individual’s biological sex. These protections will also extend to state employees and contractors for the state. The bill now heads to the Senate floor on April 21 for final approval. 

District attorneys: The General Assembly this week passed House Bill 1010, sponsored by State Rep. Debra Moody, R-Covington, which will ensure local district attorneys can recuse themselves to avoid conflicts of interest in removal proceedings. The legislation adds language to Tennessee state law to allow district attorneys general (DAGs) to appoint another DAG or an assistant to conduct removal actions against public officials. The legislation will immediately take effect upon Gov. Bill Lee’s signature. 

Property tax relief: House Bill 1134, sponsored by State Rep. Clark Boyd, R-Lebanon, will allow local legislative bodies to partner with nonprofit organizations to deliver property tax relief if the organization provides housing assistance to low-income households. To be eligible, an organization must provide at least 30% of assistance to veterans experiencing homelessness. House Bill 1134 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk to be signed into law. It will take effect July 1. 

Combating childhood hunger: Legislation aimed at finding the best ways to effectively end childhood hunger in Tennessee was approved by the General Assembly. House Bill 1357, or the End Childhood Hunger Act, establishes a year-long task force within the Tennessee Department of Human Services to recommend a strategic action plan addressing affordability, maximizing public resources, fostering nonprofit partnerships and resolving administrative issues such as EBT card fraud and theft. The task force must report its findings to the General Assembly no later than July 1, 2026. The legislation now heads to the governor’s desk. 

Learning pods: The General Assembly this week approved legislation to protect the rights of Tennessee families to participate in learning pods, which are voluntary associations of parents bringing their children together to enhance their education. The Learning Pod Protection Act, sponsored by State Rep. William Slater, R-Gallatin, prohibits state and local governments and local school districts from regulating learning pods in Tennessee. House Bill 87 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk to be signed into law.  

Parental rights: The General Assembly this week passed legislation to protect parental rights in Tennessee. House Bill 347, sponsored by State Rep. Chris Hurt, R-Halls, establishes that economic disadvantage cannot be grounds for terminating parental rights. It also clarifies that neglect does not exist solely because of economic disadvantage. House Bill 347 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk to be signed into law. It will take effect July 1.  

Released time: The General Assembly has approved a bill to ensure individuals providing off-campus, private religion education during the school day through released time are properly vetted. House Bill 1281, sponsored by State Rep. Timothy Hill, R-Blountville, requires anyone holding a position within the independent entity to undergo a criminal history background check with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI). The results must be shared with the independent entity and the local education agency, which must review them and notify parents if the background check is satisfactory. House Bill 1281 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature.  

Teachers: Legislation by State Rep. Andrew Farmer, R-Sevierville, to ensure school districts can compensate a teacher’s estate with unused annual and sick leave in the event of their death was approved by the General Assembly this week. House Bill 1125 authorizes teachers to designate a beneficiary to receive payment. The legislation also requires the Tennessee Department of Education to develop guidelines for determining how often a student is present in a teacher’s classroom for their record to be attributed to that teacher. The bill is scheduled for a final Senate vote on April 21.

Tennessee sovereignty: The General Assembly this week approved legislation by State Rep. Tim Rudd, R-Murfreesboro, declaring that the World Health Organization, United Nations and World Economic Forum have no jurisdiction in Tennessee. House Bill 318 declares that the Volunteer State and its political subdivisions cannot be compelled to enforce any mandate issued by these entities. House Bill 318 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk to be signed into law. 

Kinship placements: The General Assembly approved legislation this week to enhance kinship placement options.House Bill 1356, sponsored by State Rep. Mary Littleton, R-Dickson, allows the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services (DCS) to access closed adoption records for the sole purpose of identifying biological siblings of children entering foster care. This will allow DCS to identify and explore potential sibling placements for a child if they have a sibling who was previously adopted. House Bill 1356 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature. 

Racketeering law: Legislation expanding the definition of racketeering activity in Tennessee law was approved by the General Assembly this week.House Bill 587, sponsored by State Rep. Rick Scarbrough, R-Oak Ridge, adds organized retail crime, carjacking and use of a firearm during a dangerous felony to offenses covered under the state’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization (RICO) Act of 1989. In 2023, the General Assembly expanded the time frame in which two acts can be linked as part of a racketeering scheme, strengthening the state’s ability to prosecute offenders. A RICO violationis a Class B felony offense, punishable by up to $250,000 in fines and 12 to 30 years in prison for career offenders. House Bill 587 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature. 

Bible courses in charter schools: A bill allowing public charter schools to offer state-funded, nonsectarian Bible courses is awaiting Gov. Bill Lee’s signature. Sponsored by State Rep. Sabi Kumar, R-Springfield, House Bill 1197 requires charter schools to post Bible course curricula and materials online. The bill updates the approval process and notification requirements. Currently, state-funded, nonsectarian Bible courses are allowed in public schools but not in charter schools.

Sober living homes: Legislation to improve safety surrounding sober living homes was approved by the General Assembly this week. House Bill 1351, sponsored by State Rep. Mary Littleton, R-Dickson, establishes a certification process for sober living homes through the Tennessee Department of Mental Health Services, which will select and approve organizations and ensure they meet proper standards. This certification will improve safety for residents and neighbors, and also ensure first responders have a record of sober living homes when responding to potential emergencies at the home. House Bill 1351 now heads to the governor’s desk for his signature.  

Commercial Infrastructure Development Districts: The Real Estate Infrastructure Development Act of 2025passed the General Assembly this week, allowing cities, counties and metropolitan governments to create infrastructure development districts (IDDs) for commercial developments and subdivisions. Lawmakers approved similar legislation last year for residential areas. These districts help fund new infrastructure, including roads and utilities, in growing communities by charging fees to property owners instead of relying on taxpayer dollars. House Bill 636, sponsored by State Rep. Jeff Burkhart, R-Clarksville, now heads to the governor’s desk for his signature.

UTVs on roads: The General Assembly approved a bill allowing utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) on certain public roads under statewide rules. House Bill 810, sponsored by State Rep. Rusty Grills, R-Newbern, permits UTVs on highways and county roads with speed limits of 45 miles per hour or less. Drivers are required to be at least 16, have a driver’s license and operate registered and insured vehicles. The law exempts UTVs used for farming, emergency response and public safety. Local governments may allow UTVs on unpaved roads in adventure tourism districts. The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security and the Tennessee Department of Transportation must publish a list of restricted roads by Oct. 1, 2025.  The bill now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature. 

Teacher evaluations: A proposal that aims to standardize best practices for teacher evaluations now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature. House Bill 1193, sponsored by State Rep. Scott Cepicky, R-Culleoka, will require the Tennessee Department of Education to conduct a study on teacher evaluation practices in Tennessee and across the country with the state board of education. The bill requires the department to form a committee with experienced teachers and other experts to review and analyze evaluation practices to enhance student learning and outcomes. The state board of education will submit the committee’s findings and recommendations in a final report to House and Senate Education Committees by Jan. 31, 2026. 

Disability housing expansion: Legislation unanimously passed the General Assemblyexpanding the Tennessee Commission on Disability and Aging residential pilot program by adding a licensed provider in Bradley County. The provider, located in Tennessee’s Eastern Grand Division, will offer permanent housing for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. House Bill 133, sponsored by State Rep. Kevin Raper, R-Cleveland, now awaits the governor’s signature. 

Election integrity: House Republicans this week passed legislation to prohibit foreign contributions in the constitutional amendment process in Tennessee. House Bill 888, sponsored by State Rep. Chris Todd, R-Madison County, will require political campaign committees (PCCs) to file a certification with the Tennessee Registry of Elections guaranteeing that no polling, language drafting, focus groups, phone calls or travel for ballot measures were funded indirectly or directly by foreign nationals. The legislation also requires a PCC treasurer to get confirmation from donors that they are not foreign nationals and have not accepted more than $100,000 from foreign nationals within the previous four years. The companion version of House Bill 888 is still advancing in the Senate. 

Elon Musk and SpaceX: The General Assembly this week approved House Joint Resolution 486, by House Speaker Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville, recognizing Elon Musk and his company, SpaceX, for their historic rescue of NASA astronauts Captain Barry “Butch” Wilmore and Captain Sunita “Suni” Williams, who were stranded on the International Space Station (ISS) for nine months. President Donald J. Trump in January asked Musk to facilitate the astronauts’ return. The two astronauts safely splashed down off the Florida coast on March 18 aboard a SpaceX Dragon capsule. 

Early retirement: Tennessee local governments can offer an extra retirement benefit to employees required to retire early beginning July 1. House Bill 977, sponsored by State Rep. Jeff Burkhart, R-Clarksville, would allow a supplemental bridge benefit to help close the gap between retirement and Social Security eligibility. The benefit applies to workers who retire between the ages of 55 and 62 with payments lasting up to seven years, or until 67. Local governments can adopt the benefit permanently, and it will count toward reemployment rules. The bill is awaiting final approval from Gov. Bill Lee.

Personal property on highways: A proposal to regulate the collection, storage and disposal of personal property left on state highways passed the General Assembly this week. House Bill 197, sponsored by State Rep. Tom Leatherwood, R-Arlington, mandates a 72-hour notice before removal, secure storage for up to 90 days and disposal of hazardous items. It builds on a 2022 law by State Rep. Ryan Williams, R-Cookeville, that made camping on highways a misdemeanor, aiming to balance public safety and the needs of those experiencing homelessness. House Bill 197 now heads to the governor’s desk for his signature. 

Illegal immigration:  The House and Senate chambers passed legislation strengthening public safety by holding nongovernmental agencies accountable for their role in providing services to illegal immigrants who harm citizens. Sponsored by State Rep. Rusty Grills, R-Newbern, House Bill 811 targets organizations that knowingly provide long-term housing to undocumented individuals and engage in negligence or misconduct. The bill covers housing arrangements such as leases for apartments or rental homes, but excludes temporary stays in homeless shelters. House Bill 811 now awaits the governor’s signature.

Gov. Bill Lee on Thursday announced the appointment of Ryan Hubbard, a veteran federal agent with decades of experience in immigration enforcement, to serve as Tennessee’s first Chief Immigration Enforcement Officer (CIEO). Hubbard will lead the Centralized Immigration Enforcement Division (CIED), which was created by legislation passed by the General Assembly in January.  

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