NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Gary Hicks, R-Rogersville, this week signed the 2026-27 budget bill as chair of the House Finance, Ways and Means Committee for the 114th Tennessee General Assembly. In his role as chair, Hicks will guide the passage of a balanced state budget that builds on strategic investments and priorities. Tennessee continues […]
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Gary Hicks, R-Rogersville, this week signed the 2026-27 budget bill as chair of the House Finance, Ways and Means Committee for the 114th Tennessee General Assembly.
In his role as chair, Hicks will guide the passage of a balanced state budget that builds on strategic investments and priorities. Tennessee continues to be among the most fiscally stable states in the nation with one of the lowest tax burdens per capita.
“Strong fiscal management and common-sense governance have positioned Tennessee for long-term growth that will benefit families across our state,” said Hicks. “This proposed budget makes critical investments to expand economic opportunity, improve student achievement and strengthen community safety for all residents. I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure public funds are managed wisely so the Volunteer State can continue its incredible success story.”
Gov. Bill Lee on Feb. 2 presented his $57.9 billion budget proposals to members of the General Assembly in his eighth State of the State address at the State Capitol in Nashville.
Key highlights of Lee’s budget include $339 million to strengthen public schools, including a $250 million increase for the Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement funding formula. Lee also announced $425 million for transportation projects across the Volunteer State. Among other initiatives, the governor announced significant investments in public safety, rural development and agriculture.
Hicks, along with other Republican leaders of the General Assembly, will review Lee’s proposal and make budget recommendations in the coming weeks.
Hicks is serving his first term as chairman of the House Finance, Ways and Means Committee. He previously served as chairman of the House Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee, where he helped guide passage of several multi-billion-dollar state budgets that strengthened Tennessee’s economy.
Tennessee Republicans remain committed to keeping taxes low. 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.
State Rep. Gary Hicks represents House District 9, which includes Hancock and part of Claiborne and Hawkins counties.