Rep. Susan Lynn updates

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE MAR 20, 2026

Speaking to Leadership Wilson's "best class ever" each year is a highlight.

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http://securenets1.com/SusanLynn-03202026.mp3

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TN State Interactive Budget http://tn.gov/transparenttn/state-financial-overview/interactive-budget/state-budget.html

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TN State Budget Document http://tn.gov/finance/fa/fa-budget-information/fa-budget-archive/fiscal-year-2026-2027-budget-publications.html

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Greetings from the Capitol!

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Bills On Notice

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HB1797: adds the governing body of a local education agency and any other local governing body of a public body with the authority to make binding decisions or the ability to appropriate funds to the list of governing bodies that are required to make meeting agendas available to the public in advance of such meetings. This excludes non-profits.

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Give the patient (or the parent/legal guardian if the patient is a minor) a written warning detailing all known risks and adverse reactions of the drug or drug class, plus the risks of polypharmacy (using two or more psychotropic drugs together). If no safety data exists for a specific combination, the warning must explicitly say so. The provider must review the warning with the patient/guardian and obtain a signed acknowledgment that is kept in the medical record.
Report any serious adverse event (fatal, life-threatening, hospitalization, disability, birth defect, or new/worsening cardiovascular, neurological, psychiatric, metabolic, sexual, or immune-system problems — including suicidal/homicidal ideation, severe aggression, psychosis, or death) that occurs while the patient is taking or withdrawing from the medication to the FDA’s MedWatch program within 15 business days, and retain proof of the report in the patient’s file.

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HB1159: requires a voter to designate on the voter registration record a political party with which the voter is affiliated in order to vote in primary elections for such political party.

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HJR863: urges the U.S. Congress to enact H.R. 2350 (S. 1137), which permits states to deploy cell-phone jamming systems in prisons.

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HB2469: requires the department to submit a report on the total number of state and federal benefits, and a synopsis of each benefit, available to a veteran and the veteran's surviving spouse to the speaker of the senate and the speaker of the house of representatives on or before January 1, 2027. .

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First-In-The-Nation Immigration Laws Boost Safety, School Data

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A pair of landmark bills aimed at strengthening Tennessee’s response to illegal immigration while equipping the state with better data to manage public education resources passed in the House chamber this week.

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House Bill 793, sponsored by House Majority Leader William Lamberth, R-Portland, will require local school districts and public charter schools to confirm students’ citizenship or legal status at the time of enrollment. The number of unauthorized immigrants in the United States has grown substantially in recent decades since the U.S. Supreme Court's 5-4 decision in Plyler vs. Doe in 1982, putting a significant strain on American tax dollars and resources. That decision gave children illegally in the U.S. the right to a free public education.

“Our state lacks clear, accurate data on how enrollment trends are impacting classrooms, staffing and funding,” Lamberth said. “This legislation simply ensures we have that information so we can plan responsibly and make informed decisions for our future.”

The legislation explicitly prohibits the inclusion of personally identifiable information, ensuring student privacy is protected. The information collected will be compiled into summary statistics for the Tennessee Department of Education and General Assembly. The measure responds to dramatic shifts in immigration patterns and underscores the state’s responsibility to proactively manage and plan for the growing demands on its public education system.

The Senate companion version passed in 2025, which gave local school districts the option to charge tuition. The House version was placed on hold last year to ensure Tennessee’s $1.1 billion in federal education funding would not be at risk. The Senate is expected to consider the amended version of the bill on March 26. If enacted, the Tennessee Department of Education will issue its first statewide report by July 1, 2027.

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The House on Monday passed House Bill 1704, also sponsored by Lamberth, establishing criminal penalties for individuals unlawfully present who refuse a final federal removal order or unlawfully reenter Tennessee after deportation. Violations would be classified as a Class A misdemeanor and would apply only to adults 18 and older.

“Tennessee has a duty to protect the rights, safety and privileges of its citizens and legal immigrants,” Lamberth said. “This common-sense legislation respects constitutional boundaries while ensuring we are prepared if states’ authority is restored. By holding violators accountable at the state level, we make clear Tennessee will not tolerate those who break our laws.”

The bill includes a trigger mechanism contingent on future changes in federal law or a U.S. Supreme Court ruling overturning Arizona v. United States, which would restore states’ authority to determine unlawful presence.

Additional safeguards ensure due process, including provisions to pause state prosecution while individuals pursue federal appeals or legal challenges related to their removal orders. The companion version is expected to be heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee on March 23.

Both bills are part of a broader legislative package introduced by Republicans in January to address the evolving challenges posed by illegal immigration while maintaining responsible governance and protecting taxpayer resource.

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Guardrails for Minor Content Creators Moves Through House

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A proposal to strengthen child labor compensation laws to reflect today’s revenue-driven social media landscape advanced in the House this week.

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House Bill 1723, sponsored by State Rep. Ron Travis, R-Dayton, prohibits minors between the ages of 14 and 17 from posting content in exchange for compensation.

A parent or other adult with a minor engaged in content creation would be required to maintain certain records until the minor turns 21 and set aside the minor's earnings in a trust account.

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“This bill updates Tennessee law to address an issue that simply did not exist when most overt child labor protections were written," said Travis. A minor would only be considered engaged in content creation if an account generates revenue through views, the creator earns at least $15,000 a year in compensation and a child appears in at least 30% of the content. Minors could commence civil action for certain violations of this proposal. Videos featuring the minor could be deleted and removed from an online platform if requested.

Social media platforms would also be required to implement a strategy to mitigate the risk of monetization and exploitation from intentionally sexualizing minors.

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House Bill 1723 is expected to be heard in the Commerce Committee on March 2.

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Briefly...

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Hunting laws: The General Assembly on Thursday passed legislation to protect hunting rights in Tennessee by clarifying current law. House Bill 2017, sponsored by Assistant House Majority Leader Mark Cochran, R-Englewood, would prohibit local governments from regulating the manner and means of taking wildlife, reaffirming that authority over hunting methods is the responsibility of the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission. It does not inhibit any county or municipality from regulating firearm discharge by a person lawfully hunting within 500 feet of school property. A 2013 opinion from the Tennessee Attorney General stated that municipalities may regulate firearm discharge if those ordinances do not conflict with state hunting laws. House Bill 2017 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee's desk for his signature.

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No tax on school supplies: A proposal to provide sales tax relief to teachers purchasing classroom supplies was heard in the Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee this week. House Bill 1540, sponsored by State Rep. Renea Jones, R-Unicoi, would exempt certain school supplies and instructional materials from the sales and use tax when purchased by public and charter school teachers. Eligible items include binders, crayons, composition books, folders, scissors and more. Teachers would apply for and receive a sales tax exemption card through the Tennessee Department of Revenue, similar to those issued to agricultural producers, to make qualified purchases. House Bill 1540 was placed behind the budget to be considered at a later date.

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Fourth of July instruction: A proposal to require schools across Tennessee to observe the Fourth of July annually was approved in the House chamber on Thursday. House Bill 1857, sponsored by State Rep. Tim Rudd, R-Murfreesboro, directs schools to provide students with appropriate instruction on the founding of the United States, the separation of the 13 colonies from Great Britain, the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution and related rights and freedoms. School districts and charter schools would determine the instructional program and methods based on grade-specific objectives. The proposal requires instruction to be non-partisan and focus on historical facts, founding documents and underlying civic principles. The companion version of House Bill 1857 is still advancing in the Senate.

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Stem cell therapy: A proposal to ensure Tennesseans have access to safe and effective stem cell treatment advanced out of the Health Subcommittee this week. House Bill 2246 by State Rep. Chris Hurt, R-Halls, would establish ethical and medical guardrails to protect patients and access to stem cell therapy in the Volunteer State. The proposal allows physicians to perform stem cell or regenerative medicine therapies that are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration if they are within a physician's scope of practice. It also prohibits the use of stem cells from aborted children. Stem cell therapy uses living stem cells to repair, replace or regenerate tissues in the body to treat a growing number of diseases, injuries and disorders. House Bill 2246 will be considered in the Health Committee on March 24.

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Abolition of professional privilege tax: House Bill 189 by State Rep. Ron Gant, R-Piperton, would eliminate the professional privilege tax in Tennessee by May 31, 2031. Currently, certain professionals are required to pay $400 to the state for the "privilege" of practicing their profession. This proposal would lower that rate by $100 each year until the tax is completely abolished. Tennessee Republicans have eliminated this flat fee on 18 professions since 2019, but attorneys, securities agents, broker-dealers, investment advisors and lobbyists remain taxed. House Bill 189 has been placed behind the budget for consideration at a later date.

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Protections for children: A bill to further protect children from abuse in Tennessee advanced out of the Criminal Justice Subcommittee this week. House Bill 2377 by State Rep. Clay Doggett, R-Pulaski, would make it easier to prosecute cases involving ongoing sexual abuse of a child. The proposal lowers the artificial evidentiary barrier that disproportionately affects cases involving young children by focusing on patterns of conduct instead of rigid timelines. It reduces the timeframe of abuse from 90 to 30 days. House Bill 2377 will be heard in the Judiciary Committee on March 23.

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Contraband in penal institutions: The House Criminal Justice Subcommittee this week advanced a proposal to crack down on contraband in jails and prisons in Tennessee. House Bill 1678 by State Rep. Mike Sparks, R-Smyrna, increases the penalties for knowingly and with unlawful intent sending or bringing contraband into a penal institution that results in the death of another person. The proposal strengthens the following: Class C felony to a Class B felony for weapons, ammunition, or explosives; Class D felony to a Class C felony for intoxicants, legend drugs, controlled substances, or controlled substance analogues; and Class E felony, punishable by a fine only, to a Class D felony for telecommunication devices. Nearly 50 inmates in prisons across Tennessee have died from illicit drugs in each of the past five years, according to the Tennessee Department of Correction. House Bill 1678 will be heard in the Judiciary Committee on March 23.

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Workforce development: House Bill 2617, sponsored by State Rep. Timothy Hill, R-Blountville, would require the governor, in coordination with the Tennessee Workforce Development Board, to approve all short-term workforce training programs eligible for federal Workforce Pell Grants. The proposal would provide much-needed funding for Tennessee students seeking to enter the state's workforce. House Bill 2617 is scheduled to be heard in the Commerce Committee on March 25.

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Mental health resources: House Bill 1761, sponsored by State Rep. Ron Gant, R-Piperton, would require the State Employee Assistance Program, which includes mental health and wellness resources, to be made available for all active members of volunteer fire departments or eligible combination fire departments across Tennessee. It also expands access to mental health treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder to part-time public safety employees. House Bill 1761 will provide necessary support to volunteer firefighters who respond to stressful situations, often in addition to having full-time jobs. The proposal has been placed behind the budget for consideration at a later date.

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Public utility representation: Legislation to give local communities more say over who provides their electric service advanced out of the Cities and Counties Subcommittee this week. If a city or county believes its residents could be better served by another provider, House Bill 2592, sponsored by State Rep. Kevin Vaughan, R-Collierville, creates a clear and fair process to evaluate that option. The legislation establishes a transparent valuation process so communities know exactly what it would cost to purchase the electric infrastructure serving their area. House Bill 2592 is scheduled to be heard in the State and Local Government Committee on March 24.

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Virtual currency kiosk ban: The General Assembly this week unanimously approved legislation to prohibit the installation and operation of virtual currency kiosks, commonly known as Bitcoin ATMs or crypto kiosks. House Bill 2505, sponsored by House Speaker Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville, and State Rep. Jay Reedy, R-Erin, creates a Class A misdemeanor to own or operate a virtual currency kiosk. The legislation was drafted with law enforcement agencies to address a surge in scams across the Volunteer State. A Middle Tennessee law enforcement agency recently reported that nearly $4 million was stolen from dozens of residents in scams tied to crypto kiosks. Because of the instant, nearly untraceable nature of these transactions, victims rarely recover stolen funds. A report by Chainalysis estimates $17 billion was stolen in crypto scams and fraud in 2025 alone. The bill now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature. It would take effect July 1.

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Patient care: The General Assembly this week passed House Bill 2044, sponsored by Speaker Pro Tempore Pat Marsh, R-Shelbyville, which authorizes physician assistants to delegate certain tasks to certified medical assistants. The legislation clarifies the categories of prescriptions a medical assistant may prepare or administer under a physician’s supervision. It also outlines patient care duties that medical assistants are prohibited from performing, such as providing a medical opinion. House Bill 2044 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature.

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USS Intrepid: House Joint Resolution 727, sponsored by State Rep. Jerome Moon, R-Maryville, was unanimously approved by the Tennessee House of Representatives this week. The resolution urges Congress to enact legislation that would bring home the remains of the 13 U.S. Marines and Sailors aboard the USS Intrepid when it exploded in Tripoli Harbor on Sept. 4, 1804, during the First Barbary War. The soldiers were buried by American prisoners of war in Libya, marking the start of a centuries-long debate as to whether the fallen soldiers should remain in Libya or return to the U.S. The resolution will now be considered in the Senate before heading to Gov. Bill Lee's desk.

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Hiring processes: Legislation to ensure applicants aren’t permanently restricted from performing certain jobs due to past psychological exams advanced in the House this week. House Bill 2074, sponsored by State Rep. Greg Vital, R-Harrison, allows a person who applies for a public safety position to seek a second psychological evaluation if the individual was not cleared the first time. The bill does not require employment reconsideration, but it does allow departments seeking to hire an applicant to reconsider the employment decision. House Bill 2074 is scheduled to be heard in the Commerce Committee on March 25.

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Gateway to the Smokies: A resolution by State Rep. Fred Atchley, R-Sevierville, designating the city of Gatlinburg as the official Gateway to the Smokies was unanimously approved by the House of Representatives this week. House Joint Resolution 751 recognizes the city’s unique location bordering Great Smoky Mountains National Park, its proximity to major park entrances like Sugarlands, and its role as the primary access point and basecamp for millions of visitors each year. The resolution also highlights Gatlinburg's position along U.S. Route 441 as the busiest entryway to the nation’s most visited national park and affirms its importance in supporting tourism and access to the Smoky Mountains. The companion version is expected to be heard in the Senate Commerce Committee on March 24.

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Military employment: The Business and Utilities Subcommittee advanced legislation this week to make it easier for military families to use their out-of-state professional licenses in Tennessee. The Military Families Licensing Recognition Act, sponsored by State Rep. Rick Eldridge, R-Morristown, allows active-duty military members and their spouses to use their professional licenses without having to get fully relicensed as long as they are relocating under military orders. The proposal would also apply to those who live in a neighboring state but want to work in Tennessee. House Bill 1677 is expected to be heard in the Commerce Committee on March 25.

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Sex offenders at campgrounds: Legislation requiring sex offenders to notify campground owners or operators of their status before they stay on their property advanced out of the Criminal Justice Subcommittee this week. House Bill 1922, sponsored by State Rep. Michele Carringer, R-Knoxville, creates a Class E felony for any sex offender or violent sex offender who does not notify the owner or operator of a campground before the beginning of their overnight stay. If enacted, this requirement would take effect on July 1. House Bill 1922 is expected to be heard in the Judiciary Committee on March 23.

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Seasonal firework sales: Legislation to extend the period in which seasonal firework retailers may sell fireworks advanced out of the Business and Utilities Committee this week. House Bill 1926, sponsored by State Rep. Rush Bricken, R-Tullahoma, adds Memorial Day and Labor Day to the period in which fireworks can be sold in the Volunteer State. It would also increase the seasonal permit fee to sell fireworks from $100 to $150. House Bill 1926 is scheduled to be heard in the Commerce Committee on March 25.

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LEGISLATIVE UPDATE MAR 13, 2026

This week, I was happy to meet with members of Centerstone, Volunteer Behavioral Health, Wilson Co. CASA & March Of Dimes.

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CLICK THIS LINK TO HEAR THE AUDIO

http://securenets1.com/SusanLynn-03132026.mp3

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TN State Interactive Budget http://tn.gov/transparenttn/state-financial-overview/interactive-budget/state-budget.html

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TN State Budget Document http://tn.gov/finance/fa/fa-budget-information/fa-budget-archive/fiscal-year-2026-2027-budget-publications.html

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Greetings from the Capitol!

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Bills On Notice

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HB413: authorizes a patient with a severe chronic disease or terminal illness to access, and a physician to recommend, investigational stem cell treatment; requires the commissioner of health to promulgate rules to, among other things, list the medical conditions that constitute a qualifying severe chronic disease or terminal illness.

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HB1797: adds the governing body of a local education agency and any other local governing body of a public body with the authority to make binding decisions or the ability to appropriate funds to the list of governing bodies that are required to make meeting agendas available to the public in advance of such meetings. This excludes non-profits.

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HB1160: requires any healthcare provider authorized to prescribe psychotropic medications — defined broadly to include antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, hypnotics, stimulants, benzodiazepines, and hormonal medications whose primary purpose is to alter a person’s physical appearance or sexual characteristics present at birth — to do two main things before issuing a prescription:

Give the patient (or the parent/legal guardian if the patient is a minor) a written warning detailing all known risks and adverse reactions of the drug or drug class, plus the risks of polypharmacy (using two or more psychotropic drugs together). If no safety data exists for a specific combination, the warning must explicitly say so. The provider must review the warning with the patient/guardian and obtain a signed acknowledgment that is kept in the medical record.
Report any serious adverse event (fatal, life-threatening, hospitalization, disability, birth defect, or new/worsening cardiovascular, neurological, psychiatric, metabolic, sexual, or immune-system problems — including suicidal/homicidal ideation, severe aggression, psychosis, or death) that occurs while the patient is taking or withdrawing from the medication to the FDA’s MedWatch program within 15 business days, and retain proof of the report in the patient’s file.

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HB1159: requires a voter to designate on the voter registration record a political party with which the voter is affiliated in order to vote in primary elections for such political party.

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HJR863: urges the U.S. Congress to enact H.R. 2350 (S. 1137), which permits states to deploy cell-phone jamming systems in prisons.

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HB2469: requires the department to submit a report on the total number of state and federal benefits, and a synopsis of each benefit, available to a veteran and the veteran's surviving spouse to the speaker of the senate and the speaker of the house of representatives on or before January 1, 2027.

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HB1155: prohibits the importation, sale, and distribution of cell-cultured food products in this state.

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Republicans Seek Fair Representation for Utilities

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Legislation advancing in the House and Senate aims to ensure fair representation for customers of municipally owned electric utilities. House Bill 2418 by House Majority Whip Clark Boyd, R-Lebanon, requires all city-owned electric utilities in Tennessee to give customers living in counties outside municipal boundaries a voting seat in the utility's governing board for the county they serve.

"Customers who live outside city limits pay the same electric bill rates and endure the same outages as those inside the city yet have zero say on the board that governs their utility. Unfortunately, January's storm exposed this inequity. This legislation levels the playing field for all Tennesseans who rely on municipal utilities. When every ratepayer has representation, we strengthen accountability, improve service and build a more reliable grid for everyone.”, Boyd said.

Boyd introduced the bill following the devastating impacts of Winter Storm Fern in late January, which brought heavy snow, ice and freezing temperatures to Tennessee. Notably, the storm caused one of the most severe power outages in Nashville Electric Service (NES) history, resulting in widespread disruptions across the region and affecting approximately 230,000 customers. The outages left many families without electricity for days, with some areas enduring outages lasting nearly two weeks amid ongoing restoration challenges.

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NES serves all of Davidson County, plus portions of six surrounding counties: Wilson, Rutherford, Williamson, Cheatham, Robertson, and Sumner. Currently, NES's five-member board is appointed exclusively by the mayor of Nashville. House Bill 2418 proposes to require an electric utility company to add at least one new voting board member from each outside county.

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The board member would be appointed by the county mayor for a four-year term, with optional initial two-year staggered terms. The new board members may not be city employees and would receive no municipal benefits. House Bill 2418 is expected to be heard in the Cities and Counties Subcommittee on March 18.

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House Advances English-Only Driver Requirements

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The House this week advanced two bills to improve safety on Tennessee roads by ensuring drivers can read and understand basic English.

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House Bill 1708, sponsored by State Rep. Kip Capley, R-Summertown, would require written driver's license exams to be administered in English, with a one-time limited exception. The proposal would also require applicants for vehicle registrations or renewals to provide proof of citizenship or lawful status in the United States. Capley's proposal would permit a one-time, limited exception allowing an applicant to take the written driver's license exam in a language other than English. This license would be valid for 18 months and would be granted for travel to and from educational institutions, regular places of employment, places of worship, childcare facilities, and medical appointments. Applicants would retake the exam in English after the limited license expires.

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House Bill 1817, sponsored by State Rep. Lowell Russell, R-Vonore, requires law enforcement officers to issue an out-of-service order to a commercial driver if they cannot sufficiently read or speak English to communicate with the public, understand traffic signs and signals, or respond to official inquiries. While this law is already in place at the federal level, this legislation will ensure Tennessee maintains the law if the federal government repeals it. Drivers issued an out-of-service order would also have their commercial driver’s license (CDL) suspended until they pass the written CDL test administered in English by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security.

House Bill 1708 is scheduled to be heard in the Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee on March 18. House Bill 1817 now heads to the full Transportation Committee.

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Briefly...

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Child trafficking prevention: The House on Monday passed House Bill 1527, sponsored by State Rep. Jake McCalmon, R-Franklin, to require school districts to provide age- and developmentally-appropriate child trafficking prevention and awareness education as part of health education from kindergarten through 12th grade. House Bill 1527 allows qualified health care professionals or social workers to assist with instruction. The companion version of the proposal is still advancing through the Senate.

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Children's Services investigations: House Bill 1734, sponsored by State Rep. Debra Moody, R-Covington, requires the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services to record testimonies from minors by video or audio during an investigation involving child abuse, dependency or neglect. The proposed legislation would limit the significant emotional damage and psychological trauma children often endure when required to repeat traumatic events during an investigation. House Bill 1734 will be heard for consideration in the House Judiciary Committee on March 18.

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Protecting 2A rights for renters: The General Assembly approved legislation this week ensuring landlords cannot ban Tennesseans from legally possessing firearms or ammunition in their rental homes. House Bill 469, sponsored by State Rep. Lee Reeves, R-Franklin, protects a tenant's right to legally carry and store a firearm inside a rental unit, in a vehicle parked at the residence and while directly entering or exiting those locations through hallways, parking lots or other common areas. Landlords may require firearms to be concealed, holstered or stored in a carrying container when moving through shared spaces. If a landlord violates these protections, a tenant may pursue civil action. The bill also protects landlords from civil liability solely for complying with the law. The legislation does not apply to health care facilities, mental health facilities, certain senior living centers or schools. The bill now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature.

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AI deepfakes: The General Assembly this week passed a proposal to promote transparency and accountability in political campaign advertisements. The Transparency for Deepfakes in Political Advertising Act, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Jason Zachary, R-Knoxville, requires a disclosure if an audio or video ad falsely depicts a candidate's speech or actions, commonly referred to as a deepfake. Failure to provide a disclaimer could result in a Class C misdemeanor. Broadcasters, hosts, third-party producers and carriers of the communication could not be held liable unless they are responsible for creating the content. House Bill 1513 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee's desk to be signed into law.

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Employment protections: House Bill 562, sponsored by State Rep. Monty Fritts, R-Kingston, would prohibit state and local officials from shutting down lawful businesses or occupations by labeling them “non-essential” during a state of emergency. This legislation stems from shutdowns across the country during the COVID-19 pandemic. The proposal would allow for the removal of local officials who violate the law, and those officials would be ineligible to run for the same office for five years. If the governor were to violate the law, a person harmed by the order could sue for damages and legal costs. House Bill 562 is expected to be heard in the House chamber in the coming weeks.

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Energy freedom: Lawmakers on Thursday passed the Tennessee Energy Freedom Act, sponsored by State Rep. Chris Todd, R-Madison County. The proposal ensures that Tennesseans have the right to engage in and invest in companies involved in certain activities related to coal, oil and natural gas. House Bill 2070 prohibits government or private parties from bringing an action to impose liability for covered emissions from covered activities, including exploration, production, transportation, sale, manufacture, refinement, combustion or other use of a specified energy source. The companion version of the legislation is still advancing through the Senate.

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Hunter education: Students across Tennessee could soon receive hunter education courses as part of physical education, health or safety instruction. House Bill 2588, sponsored by State Rep. Chris Todd, R-Madison County, allows public schools to offer hunting courses for students in grades 5 through 12. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency would approve the curriculum to ensure consistency with established hunter safety standards. The bill passed unanimously in the House and Senate chambers and now heads to Gov. Bill Lee's desk for his signature.

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Protecting public funds: The House of Representatives on Thursday passed legislation to prevent the use of public funds to subsidize gender transition procedures. House Bill 2498, sponsored by State Rep. Kip Capley, R-Summertown, will prohibit TennCare from providing coverage or reimbursement for procedures that would enable a person to identify as the opposite sex or treat purported discomfort based on a person's biological sex. The proposal does not apply to congenital defects, precocious puberty, disease or physical injury. The companion version of House Bill 2498 is still moving through the Senate.

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College professor tenure: The House this week passed House Bill 2194, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Jason Zachary, R-Knoxville, to require each board of regents of public institutions of higher education in Tennessee to adopt and implement new policies to ensure that the rewarding, denial or revocation of tenure is not used as a form of discipline. Disciplinary actions could not alter or suspend a faculty member's tenure status, except as provided for by institutional policy after due process, according to the bill. It also ensures uniform disciplinary procedures for tenured and non-tenured faculty. Chancellors, the board of regents, and chief executive officers would have sole discretion over suspension and termination. The companion version of House Bill 2194 is still advancing through the Senate.

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State veterans cemeteries: One lawmaker has proposed legislation to permit members of the U.S. National Guard and Reserve forces who have been honorably discharged to be buried at state veteran cemeteries. House Bill 1635, sponsored by State Rep. Jerome Moon, R-Maryville, requires a member of the armed forces to have completed all service obligations and ensures the Volunteer State honors all veterans who have served our nation honorably. House Bill 1635 will be considered by the State and Local Committee on March 18.

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Hunting for Heroes Act: House Bill 2550, sponsored by House Majority Leader William Lamberth, R-Portland, creates the “Tennessee National Guard Sportsman” license. The proposed law would entitle a member of the Tennessee National Guard in good standing to qualify for a no-cost sportsman license in the same manner as a resident annual sportsman license. The annual sportsman license is an all-inclusive license valid for hunting, trapping, and sport fishing without any state supplemental licenses or non-quota permits, and allows holders to apply for quota permits at no additional fee. The bill will be heard in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee on March 17.

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Victims of Communism Day: The House of Representatives this week approved legislation requiring every public and charter school in Tennessee to recognize Victims of Communism Day on November 7 each year. House Bill 2089, sponsored by State Rep. Dennis Powers, R-Jacksboro, requires at least 45 minutes of instruction for students enrolled in world history or geography courses on the hardships faced by victims of communist regimes. If students are not in class on November 7, the instruction must be provided the next time the class meets. The legislation would take effect in the 2026-27 school year. The companion version of House Bill 2089 is still advancing through the Senate.

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Civics education: The General Assembly on Monday passed legislation directing public and charter schools to incorporate a civics instructional video outlining our nation’s founding principles. House Bill 2395, sponsored by State Rep. Michele Reneau, R-Signal Mountain, requires students in grades 6-12 to be shown the video once in both middle and high school. The video would explain the meaning of the Declaration of Independence and the religious affiliation and moral beliefs of our nation’s founding fathers. It must be historically accurate and free from political stances. House Bill 2395 mandates that the civics instructional video be recommended by the Tennessee Textbook and Instructional Materials Quality Commission and approved by the Tennessee State Board of Education. The bill now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature. It will take effect in the 2027-28 school year.

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Protecting religious freedom: House Bill 2264, sponsored by State Rep. Greg Martin, R-Hixson, establishes a Class A misdemeanor offense for deliberately interfering with lawful religious services, including trespassing, disruptive demonstrations, or other intentional acts that disturb or obstruct the order and solemnity of a religious gathering. House Bill 2264 now heads to the Judiciary Committee for further consideration.

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Expanding employee bullying policies: The Education Committee this week advanced legislation to hold school employees, rather than only teachers, accountable for bullying students. House Bill 1733, sponsored by State Rep. Debra Moody, R-Covington, permits school districts to dismiss or suspend a school employee who has engaged in an act of harassing, intimidating, bullying or cyberbullying a student. The bill requires school districts to include descriptions of acceptable and prohibited behavior in employee policies. House Bill 1733 is expected to be considered by the Judiciary Committee on March 18.

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Tennessee's former first lady: Martha Sundquist, wife of former Governor Don Sundquist, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, at the age of 88. The former First Lady served the Volunteer State from 1995 to 2003. Sundquist was known for her love of nature and was proud to have a Tennessee state forest in Cocke County named in her honor. Born in Joliet, Ill., she lived with her husband in several parts of the state, including Shelbyville, Memphis, Nashville and Townsend. In 1989, the former first lady was appointed by President Ronald Reagan to a 3-year term on the United Service Organizations (USO) Board of Governors. She will be laid to rest on Saturday, March 21.

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Expanding revenue streams for TWRA: House Bill 2138, sponsored by Speaker Pro Tempore Pat Marsh, R-Shelbyville, seeks to ensure the financial stability of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). The TWRA relies primarily on hunting and fishing license revenues as a main source of funding. This legislation would add another funding source by directing 10% of the payments the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) makes to the state to TWRA. The bill has been placed behind the budget and is expected to be taken up for consideration by the Finance, Ways, and Means Subcommittee at a later date.

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Reducing judicial backlog: The Civil Justice Subcommittee this week advanced legislation to help courts manage growing caseloads and improve efficiency in the criminal justice system. House Bill 2251, sponsored by State Rep. Rusty Grills, R-Newbern, creates a pilot program allowing 10 counties with the highest criminal court caseload to establish criminal magistrate positions. If approved by the county commission, criminal court judges could appoint a magistrate beginning in 2027 to help handle arraignments, initial appearances, setting bonds, issuing warrants and conducting preliminary hearings. Magistrates would serve for four-year terms and be paid by the county. House Bill 2251 is expected to be heard in the Judiciary Committee on March 18.

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Advocates for human trafficking victims: The Children and Family Affairs Subcommittee advanced legislation to further support children who may be victims of human trafficking. House Bill 2527, sponsored by House Majority Leader William Lamberth, R-Portland, and co-sponsored by State Rep. Mary Littleton, R-Dickson, requires a representative from a nonprofit specializing in combating the commercial sexual exploitation of minors to be present before an initial investigation begins when a case involves suspected child human trafficking. The proposal also requires members of the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services (DCS) protection teams to complete 15 hours of annual training on severe child abuse and child sexual abuse. DCS must determine whether abuse allegations are substantiated and report findings to the state abuse registry within 90 days, or within 180 days for cases involving a child fatality, with one possible 180-day extension if needed. House Bill 2527 is expected to be heard in the Judiciary Committee on March 18.

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LEGISLATIVE UPDATE MAR 6, 2026

This week, I was happy to meet with members of the Tennessee NAMI and Isaac Kimes of the Tennessee Trial Lawyers.

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CLICK THIS LINK TO HEAR THE AUDIO

http://securenets1.com/SusanLynn-03062026.mp3

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TN State Interactive Budget http://tn.gov/transparenttn/state-financial-overview/interactive-budget/state-budget.html

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TN State Budget Document http://tn.gov/finance/fa/fa-budget-information/fa-budget-archive/fiscal-year-2026-2027-budget-publications.html

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Greetings from the Capitol!

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Bills On Notice

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HB413: This bill authorizes a patient with a severe chronic disease or terminal illness to access, and a physician to recommend, investigational stem cell treatment; requires the commissioner of health to promulgate rules to, among other things, list the medical conditions that constitute a qualifying severe chronic disease or terminal illness.

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HB1797: This bill adds the governing body of a local education agency and any other local governing body of a public body with the authority to make binding decisions or the ability to appropriate funds to the list of governing bodies that are required to make meeting agendas available to the public in advance of such meetings. This excludes non-profits.

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HB1553: This bill removes the filing fee that must be paid to the secretary of state to file articles of

termination of corporation existence; increases the number of days after a person ceases solicitation activities after registration with the secretary of state, from 30 to 90, that the person has to notify the secretary of state; keeps the requirement that a charitable organization that ceases solicitation activity and received in excess of $1 million in gross revenue during the most recently completed fiscal year include an audited financial statement and forms required to be filed by a charitable organization with the United States internal revenue service with the organization's notice to the secretary of state that the organization ceased solicitation activities.

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HB1160: This bill requires any healthcare provider authorized to prescribe psychotropic medications — defined broadly to include antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, hypnotics, stimulants, benzodiazepines, and hormonal medications whose primary purpose is to alter a person’s physical appearance or sexual characteristics present at birth — to do two main things before issuing a prescription:

Give the patient (or the parent/legal guardian if the patient is a minor) a written warning detailing all known risks and adverse reactions of the drug or drug class, plus the risks of polypharmacy (using two or more psychotropic drugs together). If no safety data exists for a specific combination, the warning must explicitly say so. The provider must review the warning with the patient/guardian and obtain a signed acknowledgment that is kept in the medical record.
Report any serious adverse event (fatal, life-threatening, hospitalization, disability, birth defect, or new/worsening cardiovascular, neurological, psychiatric, metabolic, sexual, or immune-system problems — including suicidal/homicidal ideation, severe aggression, psychosis, or death) that occurs while the patient is taking or withdrawing from the medication to the FDA’s MedWatch program within 15 business days, and retain proof of the report in the patient’s file.

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HB1159: This bill requires a voter to designate on the voter registration record a political party with which the voter is affiliated in order to vote in primary elections for such political party.

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HB1688: This bill requires assisted-care living facilities to provide written website links to prospective residents (or their guardians/representatives) before admission or contract execution. The required information includes:

The facility's current licensure status.
Its history of disciplinary actions.
The health facilities commission's meeting schedule.
The commission's facility action and abuse report.

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Bill targets nitrous oxide sales at vape shops

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Members of the Criminal Justice Subcommittee this week advanced legislation to address the misuse of nitrous oxide.

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The Nitrous Oxide Abuse Prevention and Retail Sales Prohibition Act, sponsored by State Rep. Fred Atchley, R-Sevierville, prohibits any vape retailers, manufacturers and distributors of vapor products from selling nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas or whippets.

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“This bill aims to prevent the abuse of nitrous oxide by banning the sale of nitrous oxide at the convenience stores, vape shops, gas stations and liquor stores. The intent of this bill is to protect our young people.”, Atchley told committee members.

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In 2025, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned Americans that repeatedly inhaling nitrous oxide could lead to side effects including asphyxiation, blood clots, frostbite, paralysis and brain damage. This proposal specifically bars vape retailers and vape product distributors, wholesalers and importers from offering nitrous oxide products for retail sale. Violations would carry escalating civil penalties, starting at up to $500 per product for a first offense. Repeat violations within a 12-month period could lead to fines of up to $1,500 per product and suspension or revocation of a retailer’s license. Manufacturers that knowingly cause nitrous oxide products to be sold through vape retailers could face civil penalties of $10,000 per product, and repeated violations could be treated as a deceptive trade practice under state law.

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House Bill 1644 is expected to be heard in the Judiciary Committee on March 11, 2026.

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Republicans Crack Down on Blue State Issuance of CDLs

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Tennessee Republicans this week continued to put the safety and best interests of lawful residents first by advancing legislation to keep roads across the Volunteer State safe.

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House Bill 1706, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Jason Zachary, R-Knoxville, establishes a Class A misdemeanor for an illegal alien to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in Tennessee. It would also create a Class A misdemeanor offense for someone to knowingly allow a person unlawfully in the United States to operate a CMV.

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"This legislation is about protecting Tennesseans," Zachary told the Transportation Committee on Tuesday, pointing to a recent report of an illegal immigrant with a CDL causing a deadly crash in Indiana and citing another incident in Missouri in which an illegal immigrant was filmed driving the wrong direction. "[Republicans] are going to stand with the people of this state. We're going to stand and ensure that the safety and well-being of Tennesseans is our top priority."

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The proposal requires law enforcement agencies to notify federal immigration authorities after arresting a person accused of violating this measure through the 287(g) program or Tennessee's Centralized Immigration Enforcement Division.

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Direct employers who knowingly allow illegal aliens to operate a CMV and state officials or employees of any state who issue a commercial driver's license to an illegal alien could be held liable to a person who suffers personal injury or property damage as a result, according to House Bill 1706.

Commercial motor vehicles in Tennessee include any vehicle or combination of vehicles used to transport people or property with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating of at least 26,001 pounds, with certain exceptions. Most vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers or that are used to transport hazardous materials are also considered CMVs.

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House Bill 1706 is part of Tennessee Republicans' Immigration 2026 legislative package, which is designed to close enforcement gaps, protect Tennessee taxpayers and require active enforcement of immigration laws across the state. The proposal is scheduled to be heard in the Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee on March 11, 2026.

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Proposed legislation targets financiers of activism-for-hire

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House Majority Whip Clark Boyd, R-Lebanon, has introduced legislation to hold individuals and organizations accountable for damages, disruptions to critical infrastructure, or other unlawful conduct carried out by demonstrators they compensate.

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House Bill 2109 would create a new legal pathway for victims to sue under vicarious liability when someone pays people to join demonstrations, often called "activism-for-hire" or "mercenary rioting."

"This legislation ensures the constitutional rights of Tennesseans to peacefully assemble and express their views are protected while ensuring accountability for those who finance chaos and disruption," Boyd said. "Whether it's blocking highways, damaging property, harassing others, the goal is to deter the practice of paid disruption that endangers public safety or harms innocent people."

Any organization or person who provides compensation, such as payments or other valuable considerations, to a demonstrator in exchange for their participation could be held liable for damages if the demonstrator's actions meet the elements of specific criminal offenses, according to the proposal.

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The practice of activism-for-hire involves paying individuals to participate in rallies, protests and public demonstrations with the goal of creating the appearance of strong support and influencing public opinion. Covered offenses would include rioting, aggravated rioting, disorderly conduct, obstructing a highway, civil rights intimidation, harassment, and disorderly conduct at funerals.

To establish liability, plaintiffs must prove that compensation was provided for participation and that the demonstrator's conduct resulted in ascertainable losses. A criminal conviction is not required.

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House Bill 2109 is expected to be heard in the Judiciary Committee on March 11, 2026.

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Bill strengthens American history education in higher ed

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A proposal by State Rep. Ron Gant, R-Piperton, would help ensure college students graduating from Tennessee public institutions have a basic knowledge of American history.

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House Bill 291 would require the Institute of American Civics (IAC) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, to develop curricula for a course providing a comprehensive overview of major events and turning points in our nation's history and government. This 3-credit course would be required for students pursuing a bachelor's degree in any public college or university in Tennessee, with certain exceptions.

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"Understanding the constitution is not ideological. Understanding the declaration is not partisan. Understanding Dr. King's letter is not political. It is historical and moral education," said Gant. "This bill reinforces the idea that civic literacy is a core responsibility of public education."

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At a minimum, the course must include an understanding of the U.S. Constitution, Declaration of Independence, at least five essays from the Federalist Papers, Emancipation Proclamation, Gettysburg Address, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s letter from Birmingham jail, and at least one additional document foundational to civil rights history.

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House Bill 291 would not add any credit hours to degree requirements and would not create additional cost burdens for students. While current Tennessee law requires all public college students to earn a credit in American history, this proposal outlines specific course requirements.

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If passed by the General Assembly, the course would be implemented beginning in the 2026-27 academic year. House Bill 291 is expected to be heard in the Education Committee on March 10, 2026.

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House passes Tennessee Procurement Protection Act

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The Tennessee House of Representatives this week passed legislation to protect public funds from being used to purchase certain products from adversaries of the United States.

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The Tennessee Procurement Protection Act, sponsored by Assistant House Majority Leader Mark Cochran, R-Englewood, prohibits state agencies or political subdivisions from procuring final technology products from a foreign adversarial country, as defined by the U.S. Department of Commerce. These include China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea and Russia.

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"This would be for new and reprocured contracts, so it doesn't affect any current contract, just moving forward," Cochran told the State and Local Government Committee last year.

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The legislation requires the Department of General Services' chief procurement officer (CPO) to certify that no contract is awarded to companies primarily located in or controlled by an adversarial government, with limited exceptions. It also includes companies that are majority-owned by an entity controlled by an adversary.

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Technology and software would include communication and networking devices, personal computing devices, industrial and critical infrastructure devices, financial and payment systems, automotive and transportation systems, or any other device or software deemed high-risk by the CPO.

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The companion version of House Bill 548 is still advancing through the Senate. If approved, it would take effect July 1, 2026.

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Bill protects small businesses from big tech

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House Republican Caucus Chairman Jeremy Faison, R-Cosby, this week advanced legislation to protect small businesses in Tennessee from unfair online blacklisting.

The practice of online blacklisting includes reducing visibility or accessibility of a small business's website, removing it from search results, or deleting more than 25% of reviews.

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House Bill 2028 will require search engines to provide 24-hour notice before blacklisting. A clear explanation of any rules or policies violated, steps for appeal, and direct contact information for a company representative must be included.

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“Small businesses drive Tennessee’s economy and depend on platforms like Google to reach customers. Sudden, unexplained delistings can destroy revenue overnight, devastate families, and force closures,” said Faison. “My bill requires big tech companies to provide fair notice and clear reasons for removal, offering owners a real chance to correct issues and keep their doors open.”

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The proposal doesn't ban deplatforming or valid moderation, but requires an explanation and provides small businesses with an avenue for resolution.

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Small businesses rely on online advertising and an internet presence to reach customers. Fake complaints and mass spam reports can cause sudden blacklisting, negatively impacting small businesses in communities across Tennessee.

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House Bill 2028 is scheduled to be heard in the Commerce Committee on March 11, 2026.

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Bill codifies bus service for Tennessee students

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Legislation to ensure school districts provide bus services to students advanced out of the Education Committee this week.

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House Bill 1818 sponsored by State Rep. Lowell Russell, R-Vonore, requires all school districts that offer transportation to provide bus service to students attending their zoned school, unless a bus cannot reasonably reach the child due to road conditions or if the home is in a remote area.

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"If a district provides transportation, then students attending their zoned school should have access to it," Russell said. “Parents deserve consistency and they deserve to know their child will have a reliable way to get to school."

If a bus can't reach a student's home, this proposal also requires school districts to notify parents that they may qualify for mileage reimbursement for taking their child to school.

This legislation does not change Tennessee's existing transportation reimbursement guidelines for students who live within 1.5 miles of their zoned school.

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House Bill 1818 is expected to be heard in the Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee on March 11, 2026.

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Teacher Residency Pilot Program supports career development

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Legislation by Education Committee Chairman Mark White, R-Memphis, to support student success and teacher career development advanced out of the Education Administration Subcommittee this week.

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The Tennessee Teacher Residency Pilot Program Act will create a three-year pilot program formalizing a state partnership with teacher residency programs, which includes teacher preparation training through a residency model in schools, colleges or universities, or educator preparation providers (EPP).

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"These types of programs have been operating in the state for more than 15 years, and their innovative approach to teacher preparation has proven effective time and again," White said. "Borrowing from the medical residency model that combines rigorous coursework and intentional mentorship, graduates make an immediate and lasting impact."

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House Bill 1977 would create a grant program to support residency programs by helping defray all or a portion of operating costs, including stipends for teacher residents and mentor teachers.

To be eligible for grant funding, residency programs must require teacher residents to complete at least one full academic year of rigorous EPP coursework integrated into a year of guided clinical apprenticeship through a school partnership. There must also be an expectation of employment for teacher residents at the partnering public or charter school after program completion, with educators required to commit to teach for a minimum of three consecutive years at the partnering school or at another high-need school designated by the Tennessee Department of Education.

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House Bill 1977 will be considered in the Education Committee on March 10, 2026.

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FAIR Rx Act protects consumers, eliminates conflicts of interest

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Legislation aimed at preventing conflicts of interest in the prescription drug industry and protecting patient choice advanced out of the Insurance Subcommittee this week.

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The Freedom, Access, and Integrity in Registered Pharmacy Act, or FAIR Rx Act, sponsored by State Rep. Rick Scarbrough, R-Oak Ridge, prohibits companies from owning or controlling both a pharmacy and a pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) or a health insurer in Tennessee beginning Jan. 1, 2028.

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“This bill separates financial control from patient care and decision-making,” Scarbrough said. “When the same company sets reimbursement rates and owns the pharmacy being paid, it creates a clear conflict of interest.”

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This proposal does not prevent independent pharmacies from offering mail-order, specialty or delivery services and does not restrict hospital pharmacies. It also does not apply to employers administering pharmacy benefits for self-funded employee health plans or pharmacy services provided pursuant to contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense for the administration of the TRICARE program. If enacted, pharmacies currently operating under ownership structures prohibited by the bill may continue operating through Dec. 31, 2028, while pursuing a good-faith sale to an unaffiliated owner. The legislation allows for a possible six-month extension if substantial progress toward a sale is demonstrated. Violations under the legislation can result in civil penalties of up to $10,000 per day per violation.

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House Bill 1959 is expected to be heard in the Insurance Committee on March 10, 2026.

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LEGISLATIVE UPDATES FEB 27, 2026

Representative Lynn was presented with a "Ten For Tennessee" Award for HB1153 to require local boards of education to establish a program to provide free school breakfast and lunch to disadvantaged students and subject to funding, would require the state to reimburse LEAs for providing such free breakfasts and lunches after all federal funds have been applied.

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CLICK THIS LINK TO HEAR THE AUDIO

http://securenets1.com/SusanLynn-02272026.mp3

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LISTEN TO THE AUDIO

DHS ADDRESSES SNAP COST-SHARE CHANGES, SUMMER NUTRITION

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Federal policy changes and summer nutrition programs were center stage as Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) Commissioner Clarence H. Carter and his team presented their budget proposals this week. A major focus of the presentation was the upcoming changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) administrative cost-share under President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB). Beginning in fiscal year 2027, Tennessee will cover 75% of administrative costs, with the federal government paying 25%. Currently, that cost is split evenly between the state and federal government. As of January, DHS serves more than 600,000 Tennesseans through SNAP. Based on a review of the last nine months, the department estimates the new cost-share structure to cost the state approximately $58.3 million over the same time period. The OBBB also increased accountability standards for states. Tennessee reported a 9.47% error rate in 2025 and needs to be below 6% to avoid sharing benefits costs, which are currently fully funded by the federal government. “I will tell you, we are pushing a boulder up a hill, but we are working very diligently to do it,” Carter said of the department’s efforts to improve payment accuracy and strengthen oversight. Participation data shows DHS has already reduced its SNAP caseloads by more than 43,000 and 100,000 individuals since November. Carter also highlighted efforts to ensure no child goes hungry this summer while schools are not in session. Last year, the department distributed $120 payments to students’ families in counties that were unserved or underserved by the traditional summer meal programs. DHS is requesting $3 million to maintain those direct payments and $5 million to support sponsors and community partners for non-federally reimbursable expenses. The commissioner also outlined roughly $5 million in budget reductions achieved through lowering administrative costs and negotiating contracts with their call center, while maintaining the same level of service to Tennessee families.

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DEPARTMENT HOPES TO EXPAND MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT, SUPPORT

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In its budget presentation, the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services highlighted targeted investments aimed at expanding treatment access, recovery supports and community-based care. Commissioner Marie Williams opened the presentation by reporting a more than 30% decline in overdose deaths and continued expansion of behavioral health services across rural communities. Project Rural Recovery now serves 20 counties, while a statewide criminal justice liaison program has connected more than 16,000 individuals in jails with services. School-based behavioral health liaisons currently support more than 23,000 children and families annually. Notable funding proposals included a $3 million recurring request from the K-12 Mental Health Trust Fund to add up to 43 behavioral health liaisons to schools across the state. A $5 million nonrecurring proposal would expand supportive housing by 100 beds through the Creating Homes Initiative 3.0 for individuals with mental illness or substance use disorders returning from incarceration. Additional proposals include $2.1 million for addiction recovery services, $3.8 million to sustain and expand rural mobile clinics to 30 counties, $1.7 million to complete the behavioral health scholarship workforce pipeline and $2 million from TennCare shared savings to increase treatment capacity. The budget also includes $1 million for clinician supervision and workforce development, $5.1 million for gambling addiction services, $4 million for community mental health grants and smaller recurring grants supporting prevention organizations. Agency officials reported an increase in demand for inpatient services following recent legal changes expanding access to treatment. State facilities are near capacity, with about 602 of 763 licensed beds currently operating and evaluation wait times averaging roughly 98 to 112 days. The department indicated that additional staffing and facility expansion would be needed to reduce wait times.

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BILLS ON NOTICE

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The House on Thursday passed legislation allowing public schools in Tennessee to display historic documents on school campuses.

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HB413: authorizes a patient with a severe chronic disease or terminal illness to access, and a physician to recommend, investigational stem cell treatment; requires the commissioner of health to promulgate rules to, among other things, list the medical conditions that constitute a qualifying severe chronic disease or terminal illness.

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HB1553: removes the filing fee that must be paid to the secretary of state to file articles of termination of corporation existence; increases the number of days after a person ceases solicitation activities after registration with the secretary of state, from 30 to 90, that the person has to notify the secretary of state; keeps the requirement that a charitable organization that ceases solicitation activity and received in excess of $1 million in gross revenue during the most recently completed fiscal year include an audited financial statement and forms required to be filed by a charitable organization with the United States internal revenue service with the organization's notice to the secretary of state that the organization ceased solicitation activities.

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HB1160: requires any healthcare provider authorized to prescribe psychotropic medications — defined broadly to include antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, hypnotics, stimulants, benzodiazepines, and hormonal medications whose primary purpose is to alter a person’s physical appearance or sexual characteristics present at birth — to do two main things before issuing a prescription: Give the patient (or the parent/legal guardian if the patient is a minor) a written warning detailing all known risks and adverse reactions of the drug or drug class, plus the risks of polypharmacy (using two or more psychotropic drugs together). If no safety data exists for a specific combination, the warning must explicitly say so. The provider must review the warning with the patient/guardian and obtain a signed acknowledgment that is kept in the medical record. Report any serious adverse event (fatal, life-threatening, hospitalization, disability, birth defect, or new/worsening cardiovascular, neurological, psychiatric, metabolic, sexual, or immune-system problems — including suicidal/homicidal ideation, severe aggression, psychosis, or death) that occurs while the patient is taking or withdrawing from the medication to the FDA’s MedWatch program within 15 business days, and retain proof of the report in the patient’s file.

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HB1159: requires a voter to designate on the voter registration record a political party with which the voter is affiliated in order to vote in primary elections for such political party.

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LEGISLATIVE UPDATES FEB 20, 2026

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CLICK THIS LINK TO HEAR THE AUDIO

http://securenets1.com/SusanLynn-02202026.mp3

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LISTEN TO THE AUDIO

REPUBLICAN PREOPOSAL WOULD CRIMINALIZE COERCIVE SUICIDE

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A new Republican proposal would protect vulnerable Tennesseans from being manipulated into harming themselves.

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House Bill 1951 would create the Class D felony offense of coercive suicide, which includes intentionally encouraging or aiding another person to commit or attempt to commit suicide within a certain period of time. "Life is precious, and anyone who manipulates or coerces another person to end theirs should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," said Williams. "This proposal seeks to protect Tennesseans by recognizing the severity of coercive suicide and providing prosecutors with additional tools to pursue justice for victims. I continue to pray for the family of Grace Anne Sparks, who tragically lost her life in 2019, and I'm deeply grateful for their partnership in advancing this legislation in her memory." Grace Anne Sparks was a 19-year-old girl from Knoxville who shot herself after an Indiana man manipulated and groomed her for years. The man was communicating with Sparks over video chat, where he encouraged her to place a bullet in a revolver, spin it, and put it to her head to pull the trigger. The man who coerced Sparks into ending her life was sentenced to two years in prison, the maximum penalty allowed by current law. House Bill 1951 will provide prosecutors with an additional avenue to protect victims and hold offenders accountable by establishing a Class D felony, which is punishable by up to 12 years in prison. Candis Sparks, Grace Anne's mother, testified this week in support of House Bill 1951. "This legislation is not about criminalizing grief or mental illness. It is about accountability for predators who exploit vulnerability and hide behind technical gaps in the statute," Sparks told the Criminal Justice Subcommittee. To be considered coercive suicide, an offender must know that the other person has communicated an intent to commit suicide, according to the legislation. House Bill 1951 will be considered by the Judiciary Committee on Feb. 18.

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BILLS ON NOTICE

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HB1553: removes the filing fee that must be paid to the secretary of state to file articles of termination of corporation existence; increases the number of days after a person ceases solicitation activities after registration with the secretary of state, from 30 to 90, that the person has to notify the secretary of state; keeps the requirement that a charitable organization that ceases solicitation activity and received in excess of $1 million in gross revenue during the most recently completed fiscal year include an audited financial statement and forms required to be filed by a charitable organization with the United States internal revenue service with the organization's notice to the secretary of state that the organization ceased solicitation activities.

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HB1155: prohibits the importation, sale, and distribution of cell-cultured food products in this state.

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HB1159: requires a voter to designate on the voter registration record a political party with which the voter is affiliated in order to vote in primary elections for such political party.

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GOP BILL WOULD ALLOW TEN COMMANDMENTS IN SCHOOLS

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The House on Thursday passed legislation allowing public schools in Tennessee to display historic documents on school campuses.

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Sponsored by State Rep. Michael Hale, R-Smithville, House Bill 47 permits the display of historically significant documents in schools, including the Ten Commandments, the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, the Constitution of Tennessee, and the Bill of Rights. “These historic documents are the bedrock upon which our nation was founded and offer significant educational value for students,” said Hale. “Local school leaders know their communities and classrooms best, and this bill gives them the autonomy to decide whether to acknowledge and display these documents for educational purposes, while ensuring they have legal protection if they do.” The legislation is unique among similar legislative proposals in other states because decisions regarding whether historic documents are posted, as well as their size, placement and presentation, remain fully under local control. The companion version of House Bill 47 is expected to be heard in the Senate in the coming weeks.

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BILL PROTECTS RENTERS' SECOND AMENDMENT RIGHTS

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Legislation to ensure landlords cannot ban Tennesseans from legally possessing firearms or ammunition in their rental homes advanced out of the Business and Utilities Subcommittee this week.

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House Bill 469, sponsored by State Rep. Lee Reeves, R-Franklin, would protect a tenant or their guest’s right to legally carry and store a firearm inside the rental unit, in a vehicle parked at the residence, and while directly entering or exiting their unit or vehicle through hallways, parking lots or other common areas. “A renter should not have fewer rights of lawful self-defense inside their home than someone who owns, and this (proposal) fits within the residential lease framework that we already regulate extensively,” Reeves told members of the Business and Utilities Subcommittee. Rental units include apartments, houses and other leased living spaces. This proposal does not create a general right to carry firearms everywhere on the property, only to move between protected places. If a landlord violates these protections, a tenant may pursue civil action. The bill protects landlords from civil liability solely for complying with the law. The legislation does not apply to health care facilities, mental health facilities, certain senior living centers or schools. House Bill 469 is expected to be heard in the Commerce Committee on Feb. 18. The companion bill was approved in the Senate on Monday..

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PRIMARY ELECTION INTEGRITY EFFORTS MOVE THROUGH HOUSE

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A proposal requiring voters to formally designate a political party affiliation when registering to vote advanced out of the Elections and Campaign Finance Subcommittee this week.

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House Bill 1159, sponsored by State Rep. Susan Lynn, R-Mount Juliet, requires voter registration records to include a political affiliation or unaffiliated designation. Voters who do not select a party would be automatically recorded as unaffiliated. This bill would ensure only voters who have declared an affiliation with the party can vote in primary elections. If passed, voters could declare their party in the first primary election they participate in following this law's effective date. That affiliation would be permanently recorded. “A primary is the party’s election, and they want members of their party to be voting on their nominee for the general election,” Lynn told committee members. “This bill also allows voters to change their party designation at any time using the standard voter registration update process.” General elections would remain open to all eligible registered voters, regardless of political party. 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, 2024, presidential election. House Bill 1159 is expected to be heard in the State and Local Government Committee in the coming weeks..

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SCHOOL NURSES COULD RECEIVE PAY BOOST IF GOP BILL PASSES

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One Republican lawmaker has proposed legislation to require school districts to classify certain school nurses as licensed personnel, similar to teachers, in an effort to boost their pay.

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House Bill 1675, sponsored by State Rep. Elaine Davis, R-Knoxville, would apply to any school nurse who is directly employed by the school district, is a licensed registered nurse (RN) and is certified by the National Board for Certification of School Nurses. “It is difficult to retain a lot of those nursing positions, and we want to make sure that we keep the people that are highly qualified in schools,” Davis told the Education Administration Subcommittee this week. Starting pay for eligible nurses would match the base teacher salary at $50,000. Nurses with more experience or credentials would be paid accordingly. This legislation also has protections to ensure any school nurse who is already making more than this base salary but may not meet these specific requirements would not have their pay cut. House Bill 1675 is expected to be heard in the Education Committee in the coming weeks.

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PROPOSAL ENSURES HOMELESS TENNESSEANS GET PROPER SUPPORT

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A Republican proposal will support homeless Tennesseans by ensuring adequate housing and support services before being relocated to a new city.

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House Bill 1671, sponsored by State Rep. Tim Rudd, R-Murfreesboro, would prohibit local governments from relocating homeless people to another jurisdiction without written consent from the receiving municipality. The proposal also restricts the use of public funds for relocation purposes unless the receiving jurisdiction has available housing and other necessary services. "No local government should be relocating Tennesseans to unfamiliar places without transparency and coordination," said Rudd. "This legislation protects the limited resources of communities across the Volunteer State by ensuring proper advance notification and approval. Homeless individuals deserve compassion, and this is a critical step in getting them the housing, support and resources they need." Jurisdictions impacted by violations of this measure could seek damages and injunctive relief against the local government that improperly relocated individuals, according to the legislation. House Bill 1671 advanced out of the Cities and Counties Subcommittee.

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LEGISLATIVE UPDATE FEB 13, 2026

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CLICK THIS LINK TO HEAR THE AUDIO

http://securenets1.com/SusanLynn-02132026.mp3

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2025-2026 edition of Tennessee's Blue Book

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The 2025-2026 edition of Tennessee's Blue Book is now available! Free to Tennessee residents, the Tennessee Blue Book is filled with useful information about our state, both past and present, including the makeup of Tennessee state government, state history, national and state constitutions, most recent election results and census data.

To get a copy, you are welcome to contact our office or the Secretary of State's office.

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Local property tax hike limits proposed

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Two Republican proposals would protect homeowners in Tennessee from exorbitant local property tax hikes.

House Bill 2607 by State Rep. Bud Hulsey, R-Kingsport, would cap property tax increases at no more than 2% per year, with a limited exception for municipalities that deem additional increases necessary.

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Local governments could exceed the 2% cap for up to four years only if a referendum is held and at least 60% of voters approve the proposed increase.

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"Homeownership is central to the American dream, but excessive property tax hikes are threatening the stability of Tennessee families," said Hulsey. "Government at all levels must live within its means and respect the private property rights of residents. This proposal helps ensure all Tennesseans, including senior citizens and those on fixed incomes, are never taxed out of the homes they've spent their lives working to own."

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Referendum notices must include the purpose for the additional revenues, the amount of tax to be imposed and the period of time for the increased rate to remain in effect.

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House Bill 1873 by Deputy Speaker Jason Zachary, R-Knoxville, would require a referendum election to increase the local property tax rate by an amount exceeding inflation plus 2% annually, or inflation plus 6% over the preceding three tax years. Tennessee is one of four states that do not limit local property tax hikes. Several municipalities across the state have significantly raised property taxes in recent years, including a 60% increase in Davidson County since 2020.

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A recent statewide poll revealed 90% of Tennessee voters support the state limiting how much local governments can increase property taxes. Tennesseans also back requiring voter approval for hikes that exceed the prescribed limit.

The Volunteer State has not had a state property tax since 1949. Republican lawmakers in 2024 approved a proposed amendment to Tennessee's Constitution to ensure a state property tax can never be implemented by a future General Assembly. The amendment will now be on the ballot for voters to decide on Nov. 3, 2026.

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House Bill 2607 and House Bill 1873 will be considered in the Cities and Counties Subcommittee in the coming weeks.

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'Illegal to be illegal' bill advances

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House Majority Leader William Lamberth, R-Portland, has proposed legislation that aims to strengthen Tennessee’s response to illegal immigration and reinforce public safety.

House Bill 1704 establishes state-level criminal penalties for individuals unlawfully present in the United States who have received a final order of removal under federal law and intentionally refuse to leave the state, as well as for individuals who unlawfully reenter Tennessee after being deported. Simply put, House Bill 1704 makes it "illegal to be illegal" in Tennessee.

Violations would be classified as a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by 11 months and 29 days in jail. It would only apply to adults 18 and over.

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“Tennessee has a duty to protect the rights, safety, and privileges of its citizens and legal residents. This common-sense legislation respects constitutional boundaries while ensuring we are prepared if states' authority is restored," Lamberth said. "By holding violators accountable at the state level, we make clear Tennessee will be less than welcoming to those who break our laws."

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The bill includes a trigger mechanism contingent on future changes in federal law or a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Arizona v. United States that restores states’ authority to determine unlawful presence. The reentry provision of House Bill 1704 would only take effect 30 days after one of those events occur.

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The bill also includes safeguards to ensure due process. Criminal proceedings would be stayed if an individual has not exhausted all available federal appeals or legal challenges related to their removal order or deportation. House Bill 1704 is expected to be heard in the Judiciary Committee on Feb. 18

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Bill would allow Ten Commandments in schools

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The House on Thursday passed legislation allowing public schools in Tennessee to display historic documents on school campuses.

Sponsored by State Rep. Michael Hale, R-Smithville, House Bill 47 permits the display of historically significant documents in schools, including the Ten Commandments, the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, the Constitution of Tennessee, and the Bill of Rights.

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“These historic documents are the bedrock upon which our nation was founded and offer significant educational value for students,” said Hale. “Local school leaders know their communities and classrooms best, and this bill gives them the autonomy to decide whether to acknowledge and display these documents for educational purposes, while ensuring they have legal protection if they do.”

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The legislation is unique among similar legislative proposals in other states because decisions regarding whether historic documents are posted, as well as their size, placement and presentation, remain fully under local control.

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Safe Haven Law expansion proposed

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House Republicans advanced legislation that would strengthen and expand Tennessee’s Safe Haven Law, which allows mothers to surrender their unharmed newborns at designated facilities within 45 days of being born without fear of being prosecuted.

House Bill 1844, sponsored by State Rep. Ed Butler, R-Rickman, builds on Tennessee's current law to include ambulance stations in the list of approved facilities where a newborn may be safely surrendered without criminal liability. The legislation would also clarify monitoring requirements for Safe Haven Baby Boxes by codifying safeguards that have been standard practice into state law.

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“There’s no greater way a mother can exhibit love for a newborn she is unable to care for than to surrender that child to a safe and secure environment,” said Butler. “More facilities can serve as secure options for newborns in crisis situations, so no safe option is left unclear in state law.”

The bill revises statutory language to ensure staff are scheduled 24 hours. The clarification allows for a solution in the event emergency personnel may be temporarily away responding to calls.

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Tennessee law permits infants to be surrendered without penalty at approved facilities, including hospitals, birthing centers, community health clinics, outpatient walk-in clinics, fire departments, law enforcement facilities, emergency communications centers and nursing homes operating with continuous scheduled staffing.

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More than 141 infants have been safely surrendered in Tennessee since 2001, when the Safe Haven Law took effect. The devices must be continuously monitored, equipped with an on-site alarm, and automatically notify 911 when activated to ensure immediate emergency response and rapid transport for medical care and Tennessee Department of Children’s Services notification.

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House Bill 1844 is expected to be heard for consideration in the Health Committee on Feb. 17.

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Bill strengthens substance abuse, violence prevention program

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One Republican lawmaker is aiming to strengthen substance abuse and violence prevention programming in Tennessee schools beginning in the 2026-27 school year.

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House Bill 902, sponsored by State Rep. Renea Jones, R-Unicoi, creates a three-year pilot grant program for five school districts to provide educational programming on the dangers of youth violence and tobacco, alcohol and illicit drug use.

“(The programming) will provide a sequence of lessons addressing youth substance use, violent risk and protective factors,” Jones told the Education Committee. “It is age and developmentally appropriate and aligns with coordinated school health guidelines.”

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Qualifying school districts must already have a substance abuse and violence prevention program in grades 3-12. Districts would also be required to submit annual reports to various state departments and lawmakers on the effectiveness of the program.

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School districts could apply for grant funding for the program, which would be administered by the Tennessee Department of Education.

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House Bill 902 advanced out of the Education Committee this week and is expected to be heard in the Finance, Ways and Means Committee in the coming weeks.

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Proposal would criminalize coercive suicide

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A new proposal would protect vulnerable Tennesseans from being manipulated into harming themselves.

House Bill 1951 would create the Class D felony offense of coercive suicide, which includes intentionally encouraging or aiding another person to commit or attempt to commit suicide within a certain period of time.

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"Life is precious, and anyone who manipulates or coerces another person to end theirs should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," said Williams. "This proposal seeks to protect Tennesseans by recognizing the severity of coercive suicide and providing prosecutors with additional tools to pursue justice for victims. I continue to pray for the family of Grace Anne Sparks, who tragically lost her life in 2019, and I'm deeply grateful for their partnership in advancing this legislation in her memory."

Grace Anne Sparks was a 19-year-old girl from Knoxville who shot herself after an Indiana man manipulated and groomed her for years. The man was communicating with Sparks over video chat, where he encouraged her to place a bullet in a revolver, spin it, and put it to her head to pull the trigger.

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The man who coerced Sparks into ending her life was sentenced to two years in prison, the maximum penalty allowed by current law. House Bill 1951 will provide prosecutors with an additional avenue to protect victims and hold offenders accountable by establishing a Class D felony, which is punishable by up to 12 years in prison.

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Candis Sparks, Grace Anne's mother, testified this week in support of House Bill 1951.

"This legislation is not about criminalizing grief or mental illness. It is about accountability for predators who exploit vulnerability and hide behind technical gaps in the statute," Sparks told the Criminal Justice Subcommittee.

To be considered coercive suicide, an offender must know that the other person has communicated an intent to commit suicide, according to the legislation.

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House Bill 1951 will be considered by the Judiciary Committee on Feb. 18.

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'Yes on 2' launches to ban state property tax

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Tennessee voters on Nov. 3 will have the opportunity to vote on a constitutional amendment that would permanently prohibit the Tennessee General Assembly from levying a state-level tax on property.

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A statewide campaign, "Yes on 2," officially launched this week to promote and bring awareness to the measure.

Although Tennessee no longer collects a statewide property tax, current law still permits it. Tennessee collected a property tax until 1949 when the General Assembly set the rate to zero. The proposed amendment, sponsored by State Rep. Tandy Darby, R-Greenfield, through Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2025, would close that door permanently by making it unconstitutional for the state to impose a property tax in the future.

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Supporters argue the measure ends the threat of "double taxation," allowing Tennesseans to keep more of their hard-earned money and avoid future burdens on their homes, farms and businesses.

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The Yes on 2 campaign is being led by a coalition that includes Tennessee Farm Bureau, Tennessee Realtors, Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and other business groups, with Gov. Bill Lee serving as statewide chairman. Darby serves as West Tennessee chair, House Speaker Cameron Sexton, R- Crossville, serves as East Tennessee chair and Senate Speaker Pro Tempore Ferrell Haile, R-Gallatin, serves as chair for Middle Tennessee.

Voters will decide on this and two other constitutional amendments related to crime victims' rights and bail restrictions in the November 2026 general election.

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President Trump approves TN request for winter storm aid

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President Donald Trump on Feb. 6 approved Gov. Bill Lee's request for a Major Disaster Declaration in the wake of the recent ice storm that impacted Tennessee. The announcement makes Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) public assistance available for eligible government entities and non-profit organizations in 15 counties across the state, including Cheatham, Chester, Clay, Davidson, Hardin, Henderson, Hickman, Lewis, Macon, McNairy, Perry, Sumner, Trousdale, Wayne, and Williamson.

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Twenty-nine Tennesseans died as a result of Winter Storm Fern, which damaged critical infrastructure across the state and caused 365,000 utility customers to lose power. Eligible counties can apply for reimbursement from FEMA for qualifying disaster-related costs

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Briefly…

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Orders of protection: Legislation to strengthen the penalty for offenders who violate lifetime orders of protection advanced out of the Criminal Justice Subcommittee this week. House Bill 1765, sponsored by State Rep. Mary Littleton, R-Dickson, increases the penalty from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony for knowingly violating a lifetime order of protection issued after a prior conviction for a violent offense. Tennessee Republicans created lifetime orders of protection in 2021 and have continued to strengthen the law since. House Bill 1765 is expected to be heard in the Judiciary Committee on Feb. 18.

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Legal immigration reform: The House of Representatives approved a resolution urging the federal government to streamline the legal immigration system this week. House Joint Resolution 180, sponsored by State Rep. Lee Reeves, R-Franklin, reaffirms the importance of immigration enforcement for national security and public safety while calling for a more efficient legal immigration system. A certified copy of the resolution will be sent to President Donald Trump and Tennessee’s congressional delegation.

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Judicial vacancies: The General Assembly this week passed legislation to streamline and clarify Tennessee's election process for judicial nominees. House Bill 458, sponsored by State Rep. Tim Rudd, R-Murfreesboro, will allow statewide political parties to nominate a replacement for a judicial office if a vacancy occurs after the deadline to call a party primary. Currently, parties are unable to nominate candidates for judge, district attorney general or public defender if a vacancy occurs less than 180 days before a qualifying deadline. The bill now heads to Gov. Bill Lee's desk to be signed into law.

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Legal work authorization: A proposal seeks to ensure all employees in Tennessee have legal work authorization. House Bill 1194, sponsored by State Rep. Scott Cepicky, R-Culleoka, would require every private employer in the Volunteer State to submit work authorization verification of employees to the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Current law only requires employers with six or more workers to verify lawful status of new hires. House Bill 1194 is scheduled to be heard in the Commerce Committee on Feb. 18.

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Hunting laws: A new proposal would protect hunting rights in Tennessee by clarifying current law. House Bill 2017, sponsored by Assistant Majority Leader Mark Cochran, R-Englewood, would prohibit local governments from regulating the manner and means of taking wildlife, reaffirming that authority over hunting methods is the responsibility of the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission. A 2013 opinion from the Tennessee Attorney General stated that municipalities may regulate firearm discharge as long as those ordinances do not conflict with state hunting laws. House Bill 2017 is scheduled to be considered in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee on Feb. 17.

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Protecting Tennesseans’ medical information: State Rep. Michael Hale, R-Smithville, is sponsoring legislation to protect the personal information of Tennesseans within the Comptroller of the Treasury. House Bill 1478 adds provider reimbursement information submitted to the comptroller to the list of proprietary information that is not subject to disclosure under Tennessee’s public records laws. This means that internal documents containing this sensitive, confidential information could not be released through public records requests. House Bill 1478 is expected to be heard for consideration in the Government Operations Committee on Feb. 18.

Education assessments for inmates: House Bill 1771, sponsored by State Rep. Kevin Raper, R-Cleveland, aims to provide transparency and track the success of higher education programs offered to inmates. The legislation requires the Tennessee Department of Correction to conduct an education assessment of each inmate serving a felony offense to determine the inmate's highest grade or educational level attained and their interest in continuing education. The assessment would be given at the time of intake and annually thereafter with a digital copy of the results sent to the inmate for their records. Tennessee remains a leader in evidence-based programming through the Tennessee Higher Education Initiative (THEI). Less than 15% of THEI students have been reincarcerated, compared to the national rate of 66%, according to THEI's 2025 Impact Report. The bill advances to the House State and Local Government Committee.

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Rounding cash transactions: A bill allowing businesses to round cash payments to the nearest nickel advanced out of the Banking and Consumer Affairs Subcommittee this week. House Bill 1744, sponsored by State Rep. Charlie Baum, R-Murfreesboro, allows private businesses and financial institutions to round cash transactions up or down to the nearest five cents when exact change is unavailable. The U.S. Mint struck its final pennies in November following an order from President Donald Trump, after reporting an $85.3 million loss on penny production in fiscal year 2024. Businesses would still be required to calculate and report sales tax to the penny. House Bill 1744 is expected to be heard in the Commerce Committee on Feb. 18.

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Elected superintendents: House Bill 1849, sponsored by State Rep. Ed Butler, R-Rickman, would allow counties and municipalities to switch from an appointed director of schools to an elected school superintendent. Superintendents would be elected to four-year terms in the August general election. The measure requires local governments to satisfy any remaining contractual obligations owed to a current director if an election is held before that contract expires. The State Board of Education would set minimum licensure, education and experience qualifications for the position. House Bill 1849 is scheduled to be heard in the Education Committee on Feb. 17.

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TOP

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE FEB 6, 2026

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CLICK THIS LINK TO HEAR THE AUDIO

http://securenets1.com/SusanLynn-02072026.mp3

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LISTEN TO THE AUDIO

Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. meets with TN Lawmakers

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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visited Nashville on Feb. 4, where he met with Tennessee Legislators at the State Capitol to advance his Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) agenda.

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During his visit, Kennedy emphasized priorities aligned with President Donald Trump's health reform, including improving nutrition, addressing chronic disease, strengthening rural health care, and restoring transparency and accountability for patients.

"We’re all here today because we’re facing an existential crisis in our country,” Kennedy said. “When I was a little boy and my uncle was president, we had the best health care system in the world, and we had the healthiest people in the world, the healthiest children. Today, we have the sickest.”

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He praised Tennessee for being a national leader in advancing policies that promote personal responsibility, parental rights and patient choice.

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Tennessee has passed several measures that promote better health, including putting more farm-fresh foods in schools, eliminating food additives such as Red 40, banning certain junk foods from SNAP benefits, putting whole milk back in schools and limiting cell phone use in classrooms.

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Lawmakers and the secretary also discussed opportunities for Tennessee to further partner with the Trump administration on innovative approaches to public health, including preventive care initiatives aimed at improving long-term health outcomes. Kennedy also discussed harnessing artificial intelligence as a tool to help improve health care.

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“It will transform medicine in this country with its capacity to diagnose and treat and prescribe disease, but it also helps us attack waste, fraud, and abuse,” Kennedy said. “We’re applying it right now to Medicaid. We’re going to save billions of dollars this year.”

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Gov. Bill Lee delivers State of the State Address

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Gov. Bill Lee on Monday set out his vision for the Volunteer State as he delivered his eighth and final State of the State address to Tennesseans and a joint session of the General Assembly.

Lee outlined his legislative priorities and proposed a balanced $57.9 billion budget, which includes critical investments to strengthen families, boost public safety and ensure economic and educational opportunity. The governor highlighted Tennessee's strong budgetary position after years of responsible fiscal management.

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A top priority for Lee this year is to build on Tennessee's improving educational landscape that has enabled students to outpace the national average in math and reading. The State has invested $4.4 billion in new dollars for education since 2012, including $1.08 billion for teacher pay raises. By 2027, starting pay for Tennessee teachers will be $50,000.

Lee also touted the successful inaugural year of the Education Freedom Scholarship program and announced plans to add 20,000 additional scholarship slots for the 2026-27 school year. The Tennessee Department of Education has received more than 54,000 applications this year.

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A detailed version of the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget is accessible through the Governor’s website.

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Bills On Notice Next Week

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HB1553: removes the filing fee that must be paid to the secretary of state to file articles of termination of corporation existence; increases the number of days after a person ceases solicitation activities after registration with the secretary of state, from 30 to 90, that the person has to notify the secretary of state; removes the requirement that a charitable organization that ceases solicitation activity and received in excess of $1 million in gross revenue during the most recently completed fiscal year include an audited financial statement and forms required to be filed by a charitable organization with the United States internal revenue service with the organization's notice to the secretary of state that the organization ceased solicitation activities.

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HB1155: prohibits the importation, sale, and distribution of cell-cultured food products in this state.

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Crime data highlights need for action on illegal immigration

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New data released in the 2025 Immigration Enforcement Report underscores the need for strong state-level action on illegal immigration.

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The report, prepared by the Tennessee District Attorneys General Conference, documented 21,648 criminal charges involving individuals confirmed to be unlawfully present in the United States or whose citizenship status could not be verified. The data was compiled from 11,344 reports submitted by local law enforcement agencies in 94 of 95 Tennessee counties between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2025.

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In all, 2,183 crimes were classified as the most serious of violent offenses, including 41 homicides, 145 sexual offenses and 40 cases of aggravated kidnapping. The two most common violent crimes were domestic and aggravated assaults with 1,418 total reports.

The most non-violent offenses reported were driving-related, with 12,193 violations listed including 2,920 cases of driving under the influence (DUI).

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Republican leaders on Jan. 15 unveiled nine key pieces of legislation as part of their Immigration 2026 package.

The initiative aims to reduce illegal immigration in Tennessee by closing loopholes in current law, criminalizing unlawful presence as a state offense and requiring E-Verify for public employment. It also enhances road safety and professional licensing, ensures lawful status for public benefits and school enrollment, and strengthens cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Approximately 186,000 illegal immigrants are believed to reside in Tennessee, according to a 2023 data analysis published by the Migration Policy Institute. One of the main goals of the Immigration 2026 initiative is to equip state policymakers with more precise and reliable cost data on illegal immigration in Tennessee

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House passes bill allowing one-time athletic transfers

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The House of Representatives this week approved legislation to enhance the ability of Tennessee students to stay on track in athletic extracurricular activities after a school transfer.

House Bill 25, by State Rep. Scott Cepicky, R-Culleoka, will give students in grades 6 through 8 and 9 through 12 a one-time opportunity to join a sports team immediately after transferring to a new school. Transfers must take place during the summer between school years and it must be the student's first transfer within that grade span.

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"I hope the (National Collegiate Athletic Association) puts the guardrails in college sports that we are doing right here," Cepicky told colleagues on the House floor.

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Immediate athletic eligibility would not apply to students who transfer during the school year or a subsequent time within the same grade. All other governing eligibility standards of the interscholastic athletic association would still apply.

House Bill 25 will now head to the Senate for a final vote.

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Proposal clarifies state law, safeguards Second Amendment

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House Bill 2064, filed by State Rep. Chris Todd, R-Madison County, would strengthen Second Amendment protections in the Volunteer State by eliminating a vague provision in Tennessee law that makes it a criminal offense to carry a firearm with the intent to go armed. The current statute relies on a confusing list of exceptions and defenses.

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"The God-given right to keep and bear arms has been foundational to the continued success of our state and nation," Todd said. "This critical legislation provides needed clarity by reforming the structure of our gun laws to ensure law-abiding Tennesseans can legally carry firearms across the state. These essential changes preserve individual liberty and safeguard the ability of citizens to protect themselves, their families and their communities."

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In August, the 28th Judicial District Chancery Court in Gibson County ruled that Tennessee's going armed statute was unconstitutional. Todd's legislation would clarify that all eligible Tennesseans can lawfully carry firearms under applicable state and federal laws.

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House Bill 2064 would also protect Tennesseans' firearm rights in state or local parks, greenways, or other recreational properties, or in national parks, as permitted by federal law, in accordance with the same court ruling.

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The proposal would further protect Tennesseans' right to keep and bear arms and will be considered in the Criminal Justice Subcommittee in the coming weeks.

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Bill expands insurance coverage for cancer treatment

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A proposal would expand health coverage for Tennesseans by increasing access to certain testing.

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House Bill 484, sponsored by State Rep. Brock Martin, R-Huntingdon, would require state-regulated health insurance plans to cover biomarker testing when ordered by a health care provider for diagnosis, treatment or ongoing monitoring of a patient’s disease or condition. The legislation does not include coverage for the cost of screenings, but does offer provisions to ensure testing is supported by medical and scientific evidence.

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“When faced with a cancer diagnosis, Tennesseans should not be fighting insurers while fighting for their lives,” said Martin. “Biomarker testing provides a clear path forward for care and leads to better health outcomes and significant cost savings by avoiding ineffective treatment. This legislation puts patients first by providing clarity rather than confusion and ensuring medical advancements do not outpace our health care system.”

Often used in cancer care to help physicians identify the most effective treatment for a patient, biomarker testing is increasingly used to guide care for other serious conditions such as autoimmune and neurological diseases, cardiovascular disorders, arthritis and preeclampsia.

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While comprehensive biomarker testing can carry a higher upfront cost, it leads to better outcomes and long-term savings by avoiding ineffective or unnecessary treatments.

House Bill 484 is scheduled to be considered in the Government Operations Committee on Feb. 9.

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TOP

Bill aims to reform non-compete clauses

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Legislation aimed at establishing clear and more predictable rules involving non-compete agreements in Tennessee is moving forward in the House of Representatives.

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House Bill 1034, sponsored by State Rep. Rebecca Alexander, R-Jonesborough, sets uniform standards for non-compete agreements to ensure they are consistent across industries and professions, rather than being determined by individual companies.

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“The bill establishes rebuttable presumptions for how long a restrictive covenant is considered reasonable, giving courts and businesses clear guard rails instead of case-by-case uncertainty,” Alexander said.

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Non-compete agreements would last up to two years for regular employees, three years for distributors, franchisees, dealers or licensees, and up to five years, or however long severance payments are made, when tied to the sale of a business.

The bill also protects lower-wage workers by banning non-competes for employees who make $70,000 or less. If a non-compete agreement is found to be overly broad, judges would be allowed to modify it to make it reasonable rather than invalidating it entirely.

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House Bill 1034 is scheduled to be heard in the Commerce Committee on Feb. 11..

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Bill strengthens nutrition support for eligible families

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House Bill 1835, sponsored by State Rep. Michael Hale, R-Smithville, would ensure Tennessee is able to participate in the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (SEBT) program, a federal nutrition assistance program providing grocery benefits to eligible families with school-aged children during the summer.

The proposal would direct the Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) to apply for and accept available federal funding to participate in the SEBT program, ensuring continuity of nutrition assistance for eligible students. The program would be available in addition to the state's Summer Food Service Program, administered by the DHS.

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“Food insecurity looks different from one community to another, and addressing it requires a tailored approach,” said Hale. “Limited food access, particularly in rural communities, creates unique barriers for families, and this bill allows Tennessee to respond more effectively to those challenges. With federal funding available, this is a practical way to ensure children who rely on school meals are able to easily access support during the summer months.”

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More than 650,000 Tennessee students participate annually in the federally funded program, which provides $120 in grocery assistance in the summer, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service. House Bill 1835 will be heard in the Health Subcommittee in the coming weeks.

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TOP

Briefly…

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Centrus expansion: A nuclear industry leader recently announced a major expansion in East Tennessee. Nuclear fuel supplier Centrus will be expanding its Oak Ridge facility to become a high-rate manufacturing plant. The project will create 430 new jobs and invest more than $560 million in Anderson County. The facility is the only uranium enrichment centrifuge in the U.S., making the expansion significant for both domestic nuclear energy production and national security. Centrus is the eighth company to utilize funding from Tennessee’s Nuclear Energy Fund, a $70 million initiative approved by the General Assembly to expand the state’s nuclear development and manufacturing ecosystem.

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Legal immigration reform: A resolution urging the federal government to streamline the legal immigration system is advancing through the House of Representatives. House Joint Resolution 180, sponsored by State Rep. Lee Reeves, R-Franklin, reaffirms the importance of immigration enforcement for national security and public safety while calling for a more efficient legal immigration system. If passed, a certified copy of the resolution would be sent to President Donald Trump and Tennessee’s congressional delegation.

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Enhanced handgun carry permit: The Civil Justice Subcommittee this week advanced a proposal to extend the fee waiver for lifetime enhanced handgun carry permits to include retired law enforcement officers who served less than 10 years. House Bill 1508, sponsored by State Rep. Todd Warner, R-Chapel Hill, would offer fee waivers to officers who retired from service due to an injury received in the line of duty. The proposal will be heard in the Judiciary Committee on Feb. 11.

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Site development grants: The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) this week announced more than $13 million in Site Development Grants for 13 locations across the state. These funds help improve local economies by preparing industrial sites for business investment through infrastructure and engineering improvements. More information on this round of funding can be found on TNECD's website.

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Career and technical education: The Tennessee Department of Education announced that February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month in the Volunteer State. Gov. Bill Lee issued a proclamation to recognize the importance of CTE initiatives in increasing opportunities for students across Tennessee. During the first session of the 114th General Assembly, lawmakers made significant investments to advance workforce development training and CTE in schools across Tennessee.

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Safe at home law: A bill making several changes to Tennessee’s Safe at Home Law advanced out of the Criminal Justice Subcommittee this week. The law allows victims of domestic violence and other crimes to use a substitute address to keep their home address hidden from their abusers. House Bill 1552, sponsored by State Rep. Dennis Powers, R-Jacksboro, would allow an adult sibling living with the victim to be a co-applicant and clarify that a Tennessee order of protection is not required for victims moving from another state. The proposal would also add the state’s first-in-the-nation domestic violence offender registry, created by Savanna’s Law, to the official offender registry system, barring those offenders from participating in the program. House Bill 1552 will be heard in the Judiciary Committee on Feb. 11.

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Summer food assistance programs: The Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) opened applications this week for the 2026 Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). The program ensures children 18-years-old and younger who rely on school meal programs continue to have access to nutritious meals throughout the summer months. Each year, local food partners across the state provide meals from the end of May to August when the new school year begins. While the SFSP has historically operated in most areas of the state, this year the program is focused on serving rural counties that have little to no SFSP meal sites. The last day for organizations to apply is May 1, 2026. Local organizations interested in becoming an SFSP sponsor or becoming a meal site should reach out to the DHS at TNSFSP.DHS@tn.gov.

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LEGISLATIVE UPDATE JAN 30, 2026

TDHS Opens 2026 Application Cycle for Summer Food Service Program with Target to Expand Rural Non-Congregate Feeding Options

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TDHS Opens 2026 Application Cycle for Summer Food Service Program with Target to Expand Rural Non-Congregate Feeding Options

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Tennessee is seeking program sponsors to support their communities by feeding children when school is out

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NASHVILLE, TN – The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) announced today that the application for the 2026 Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) is now open until May 1, 2026 for organizations interested in becoming a SFSP sponsor. The program aims to ensure children 18 and younger, who benefit from school meal programs, continue to have access to nutritious meals during the summer months. Each year, TDHS partners with food sponsors across the state to provide these meals. The program traditionally runs from the end of May to August when the next school semester begins.

“In 2025, the Summer Food Service Program, provided more than seven million meals to children across Tennessee,” commented TDHS Commissioner Clarence H. Carter. “That impact is only possible because of strong community partners who step up to serve. As we open the 2026 application cycle, we encourage organizations across the state to join us in this vital work and help us ensure every child has access to nutritious meals during the summer months.”

While the SFSP has historically operated in most areas of the state, the program is focused on serving rural counties that have little to no SFSP meal sites including Benton, Carroll, Carter, Cocke, Fayette, Grainger, Houston, Humphreys, Johnson, Lauderdale, Marshall, Moore, Rhea, and Sequatchie. TDHS is actively recruiting sponsors to serve these counties and welcomes additional sponsors for every county across Tennessee.

If your organization is interested in becoming a SFSP sponsor or becoming a meal site under an existing sponsor, please contact the Tennessee Department of Human Services by e-mail at TNSFSP.DHS@tn.gov For more information on the Summer Food Service Program, please visit the TDHS website.

In addition to children of school age, adults 19 and older with a mental or physical disability are eligible to receive free meals if they participate in a school program established for individuals with disabilities during the prior school year.

Parents interested in finding a Summer Food Service Program feeding location near them are encouraged contact the TDHS Summer Food Service Program main line at 615-313-4749 or contact their local school as the end of the school year approaches.~ ~ ~

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TEMA Intergovernmental Update: Significant Winter Storm System

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Top Line Updates

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Restoring power remains the State’s top priority, as prolonged cold temperatures continue to strain utility systems and slow restoration efforts across impacted regions.

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Today, Governor Bill Lee announced he requested an Expedited Major Disaster Declarationfor 23 impacted counties.

Hotlines Available: The TBI Hotline (1-800-TBI-FIND) remains active as a centralized, statewide resource for storm-related welfare check requests to help make contact with your loved ones. The Winter Weather Information is established to support Tennesseans impacted by Winter Storm Fern. 1-844-4TENN-4U (1-844-483-6648).

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Hazardous road conditions persist statewide.

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Warming centers remain open in impacted areas.

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The Tennessee Department of Health has confirmed twelve weather-related fatalities.

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Several utilities are reporting impacts, including to electric and water systems.

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Crisis Cleanup has been activated to assist residents with free property cleanup as a result of winter weather impacts. To request assistance, call: 844-965-1386.

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The State Emergency Operations Center in Nashville is activated at a Level 3 - State of Emergency to respond to the winter weather.

Emergency Service Coordinators (ESCs) from TDOT, TDEC, TDCI, TDH, THP, TN Department of Human Services, and more are monitoring the situation and standing by to provide assistance to local jurisdictions.

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Current Situation

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A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for most of East Tennessee east of I-75 from Friday at 1:00 p.m. EST through Sunday at 1:00 a.m. EST. Forecasts indicate moderate to heavy snowfall, with expected accumulations of 2–4 inches across Tennessee, which may further impact already stressed infrastructure, roadways, and power restoration efforts in affected areas.

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Yesterday, Governor Bill Lee, announced he requested an Expedited Major Disaster Declaration on Wednesday, January 28, from the federal government for 23 Tennessee counties impacted by recent winter weather. This request is intended to accelerate access to federal assistance and support ongoing response and recovery operations as the state continues to address widespread storm impacts. Gov. Lee requested both Public Assistance (PA) and Individual Assistance (IA) for all twenty-three counties. An Expedited Major Disaster Declaration, if granted, allows the state to bypass some requirements, including joint preliminary damage assessments for a traditional declaration when impacts clearly demonstrate that federal criteria will be met.

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Restoring power remains Tennessee’s top priority. The state is working closely with local, federal, utility, and voluntary partners to identify and deploy additional personnel and resources to impacted areas to continue. Efforts are focused on clearing downed trees to restore access for utility crews and emergency responders, expedite power restoration, and maintain critical routes. TEMA continues to coordinate chainsaw and cut-and-toss operations statewide, prioritizing primary routes, emergency access roads, and heavily impacted communities. Through combined state and local efforts, at least 3,000 downed trees have been cleared statewide, including more than 1,100 by local governments, with thousands more removed from state routes by the Tennessee National Guard, TDOT, TWRA, and Forestry crews.

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To further accelerate recovery, Executive Order 111 authorizes TDOT to assist with debris removal on county and city roads when requested through TEMA.

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The TBI Hotline remains available for wellness checks related to storm impacts, which can be reached at 1-800-TBI-FIND (1-800-824-3463), and the Tennessee Disaster Information Hotline was opened today to provide general disaster information and recovery resources. This line can be reached at 1-844-4TENN-4U (1-844-483-6648). Tennesseans are encouraged to use these hotlines and tn.gov/tema for non-emergency needs to help ensure emergency services remain available for life-safety situations.

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As of Wednesday, January 29, TEMA has coordinated delivery of 285 cots and blankets; 12,180 cases of water; 700 gallons of gasoline; 1,500 gallons of diesel fuel; six Starlink systems; 10,080 pounds of salt; and a generator to impacted areas statewide. Resource coordination remains ongoing as additional requests are received.

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Warming centers remain open statewide, with some transitioning to overnight shelters. Warming centers are locally managed, and availability varies by location. Residents should consult TEMA’s interactive warming center map or contact their local Emergency Management Agency. TEMA maintains an interactive map of centers operating throughout the state. Please check the notes section on the map for each shelter, as hours of operation and other information may vary between locations. If you need assistance or have questions about shelters for your area, please contact your local Emergency Management Agency.

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TEMA's Faith-Based Partnerships Office is collecting information on storm-related impacts to houses of worship across the state. If you know of a house of worship in your community that either sustained damage or provided services to its community in the aftermath of this system, please encourage them to complete the form below. This will ensure our team is aware and can provide them information with recovery resources should they come available; however, we cannot guarantee assistance.

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House of Worship Survey

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Crisis Cleanup has been activated to support impacted communities. Crisis Cleanup is a nonprofit organization and operates independently of TEMA. Services provided by Crisis Cleanup may include assistance such as cutting and removing fallen trees. Due to the potential for overwhelming call volume and limited resources, Crisis Cleanup does not guarantee that all requested work will be completed. To submit a request for assistance, individuals should call 1-844-965-1386.

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For the latest updates, preparedness information, and safety guidance related to this winter weather event, visit the TEMA Winter Weather webpage..

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REQUIREMENTS FOR "ADULT-ORIENTED ESTABLISHMENTS"

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SB 1424 by *Hensley - HB 0884 by *Todd

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Obscenity and Pornography — As introduced, expands the definition of "adult-oriented establishment", for purposes of imposing certain requirements, to include commercial establishments that offer sexually oriented material, devices, or paraphernalia, adult cabaret entertainment, or specified sexual activities, but for which such materials, devices, paraphernalia, entertainment, or activities are not the principal or predominant stock or trade. - Amends TCA Title 7, Chapter 51, Part 14. HB0884 was heard on the first day of the 2026 General Assembly, where it passed 73-24.

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IMPORTANT CHANGES TO OUR ELECTION LAWS

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SB 0367 by *Briggs - HB 0458 by *Rudd

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Election Laws - As introduced, makes various changes to election laws regarding voter registration, absentee and early voting, voter list maintenance, tabulation and recording of votes, and voter identification. - Amends TCA Title 2 and Title 55, Chapter 50. This bill adds to present law concerning determining a person's right to register to vote that the administrator of elections must check state databases regarding residency and citizenship before declaring the person a registered voter. This bill requires each county election commission to conduct routine voter list maintenance at least monthly to ensure that all voter registrations are being maintained and checking for accuracy of the voter registration list. This bill requires that a driver license or photo identification license issued to a person who is a legal resident but who is not a U.S. citizen must indicate that the person to whom the license was issued is not eligible to vote by having printed prominently on the front of the license the following: NOT ELIGIBLE TO VOTE. SB367 is scheduled in Senate and Local Government Committee for Tuesday. HB458 is scheduled in the House State & Local Government Committee for Wednesday.

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RECOGNIZING MARRIAGE

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SB 1746 by *Bowling - HB 1473 by *Bulso

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Marriage - As introduced, states that private citizens and organizations are not bound by the Fourteenth Amendment or the Supreme Court’s decision in Obergefell v. Hodges to recognize a marriage between individuals of the same sex; prohibits the board of professional responsibility from disciplining or sanctioning an attorney for declining to officiate a marriage between two persons of the same sex. - Amends TCA Title 17, Chapter 5 and Title 36. HB1473 is scheduled in House Children and Family Affairs Subcommittee on February 3rd. Just click on the committee name just above and go from there.

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SAVE America Act

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The SAVE America Act has passed the House of Representatives and is now awaiting a vote in the Senate. The bill, which aims to require proof of citizenship for voting registration, received 220 votes in favor and 208 opposed. This act is a significant step in the Republican Party's efforts to tighten voting regulations, which has drawn criticism from voting rights groups and many Democrats. The bill's passage allows it to expire at the end of the 118th Congress, but it is expected to be reintroduced and passed with Democratic support in the 119th Congress.

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LEGISLATIVE UPDATE JAN 22, 2026

TDOT Ready for Significant Winter Weather

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Drivers Urged to Stay Off the Roads

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NASHVILLE –The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) can assure motorists that it is stocked and ready to clear roadways of ice and snow. Salt supplies have been replenished in all 95 counties in preparation for the winter season, and crews have readied snowplows and brine trucks. Forecast models indicate a significant winter weather event, and motorists are encouraged to stay off the roads.

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“Maintaining safe, reliable roadways is our core mission, and winter operations are something we engineer well in advance,” said TDOT Commissioner Will Reid, P.E. “Supplies are stocked, equipment is ready and our crews are staged to deploy as soon as conditions warrant. Rapid clearance of our highways isn’t just a goal—it’s essential to protecting drivers and keeping Tennessee’s transportation network moving. Please allow our crews the room they need to operate safely and stay off the roads.”

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TDOT’s statewide 2026 winter weather budget is $30.2 million and includes salt, salt brine, overtime for employees, and equipment maintenance. The department has three salt vendors to refill salt bins as needed in all 95 Tennessee counties.

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TDOT currently has approximately 231,000 tons of salt and more than 1.3 million gallons of salt brine ready for use. Salt brine is a mixture of salt and water used to pre-treat roads before a winter storm or to melt snow on roadways when temperatures hover around freezing. Salt is applied to roads once snow accumulates.

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When snow hits Tennessee, TDOT ice and snow removal teams focus first on clearing interstates and heavily traveled state routes, specifically targeting areas vulnerable to freezing, such as hills, curves, ramps, bridges, and interchanges. During prolonged weather events, crews may need to repeatedly clear roadways.

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TDOT’s HELP team closely monitors weather forecasts several days in advance, proactively preparing staff to adjust schedules and ensure coverage—even during overnight hours in the event of prolonged severe weather. To support extended operations, trucks are pre-stocked with essential supplies, enabling crews to respond quickly and maintain readiness throughout challenging conditions.

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For winter weather tips, travel information, and a regional breakdown of TDOT winter weather supplies and equipment, visit the TDOT website https://www.tn.gov/tdot/inclement-weather/ice-snow.html. You can check TDOT SmartWay for traffic updates, including road conditions and the live SmartWay cameras.

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NASHVILLE, TN - Greetings from the Capitol. This week we completed our second week back and our members have already filed well over 500 pieces of legislation. Next week will be our last week to file legislation before the bill filing deadline.

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Most of these bills may not be of any significance to you, some will affect you indirectly, while others might have a huge impact on your life. We will try to keep you informed of these bills as they start moving through the General Assembly.

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Representative Michael Lankford from Clarksville, TN replaced Representative Jeff Burkhart, also from Clarksville, who passed away unexpectedly late in 2025. in the Business and Utilities Subcommittee.

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SHARE Act will improve safety, boost infrastructure funding

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The Safe Highways and Roads Enforcement (SHARE) Act, sponsored by State Rep. Jake McCalmon, R-Franklin, would impose a $25 penalty for moving violations, which include speeding and running red lights, and a $100 penalty for driving under the influence of an intoxicant (DUI). Commercial vehicles would be fined $50 for moving violations. Funds from penalties will be directed to the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Highway Fund for use in infrastructure maintenance and improvements throughout the state.

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The SHARE Act recognizes the severity of these offenses by adding a monetary penalty that will help improve the Volunteer State’s transportation infrastructure, said McCalmon. ‘This is a critical step in continued efforts to reduce roadway risks, improve public safety and strengthen communities.”

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Most moving traffic violations are Class C misdemeanors and carry a monetary penalty of $50 or less in Tennessee. Offenses include improper passing, failure to signal, and texting while driving, among others. A first DUI offense is considered a Class A misdemeanor carrying a monetary penalty of $350-$1,500. The SHARE Act will impose an additional penalty to improve driver safety and roadway conditions through the Highway Fund.

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House Bill 1519 will be heard in the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee in the coming weeks.

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Bill would grant accessible parking for expectant mothers

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House Bill 1457, sponsored by State Rep. Gino Bulso, R-Brentwood, adds pregnant women in their second or third trimester, or those who have high-risk pregnancies, to the list of individuals who qualify for a temporary disabled parking permit.

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"This legislation recognizes the importance of welcoming new life into the world by helping alleviate some of the hardships associated with pregnancy," said Bulso. "Strong families are the foundation of our state, and this is an important step in promoting and protecting life in Tennessee."

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Temporary and permanent disabled parking placards are currently available to Tennesseans with a variety of disabling conditions, including wheelchair use, difficulty walking, or 20/200 vision or worse with corrective lenses. They can also be issued to people using braces or crutches, those with pulmonary or cardiac conditions, and parents of permanently disabled children. Applications must include a statement from a physician.

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House Bill 1457 is scheduled to be heard in the House Transportation Subcommittee in the coming weeks.

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A proposed bill to protect Tennesseans from AI threats is tackling rapidly advancing artificial intelligence threats to protect Tennesseans from potentially deadly harm.

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House Bill 1470 would make it illegal in Tennessee for an AI system to claim to be a therapist, psychologist, counselor, or other licensed provider. It would also prohibit systems from suggesting to have legal qualification to diagnose, treat, or provide professional mental health care. The proposal does not prevent discussing mental health topics or providing general support.

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Violations of this measure would be treated as an unfair or deceptive business practice under the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act, resulting in a civil fine of up to $5,000.

Supporting religious freedom in schools

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Legislation allowing public schools to hire chaplains advanced in the House of Representatives this week.

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House Bill 1250, sponsored by State Rep. Aron Maberry, R-Clarksville, would allow chaplains to serve within Tennessee public schools to provide support services and programs to students, staff and parents.

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Any chaplain, whether paid or volunteer, must be recognized and credentialed by a religious organization to work respectfully with people of all beliefs and support every individual’s religion.

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“Chaplains must have written permission from parents before they are allowed to interact and counsel children, and each school district will have the ability to create its own waivers and rules to ensure that requirement is met," Maberry said.

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Chaplains must also undergo a criminal history background check and complete all investigations required by school employees.

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House Bill 1250 is scheduled to be heard on the House floor on Jan. 28 for a final vote. .

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Briefly…

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Honoring the life of Charlie Kirk: The House chamber honored the life and legacy of prominent conservative activist and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah on Sept. 10. House Joint Resolution 711, sponsored by Republican Caucus Chairman Jeremy Faison, R-Cosby, recognizes Kirk's influence on American youth, his leadership at Turning Point USA and his advocacy for faith, constitutional principles, and peaceful civic engagement. The resolution highlights his commitment to family, free debate, and mentoring young Americans. It further extends condolences to his family while commemorating his impact on the conservative movement. The Senate is expected to vote on the resolution on Feb. 2.

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Government transparency: A proposal seeks to improve government transparency and integrity by creating a Class C misdemeanor offense for members of Tennessee's executive branch who commit perjury before legislative committees. House Bill 1698, sponsored by State Rep. Tim Rudd, R-Murfreesboro, authorizes chairs of committees to require executive branch employees to take an oath before testifying in front of the legislative body. Speakers of the House and Senate could initiate investigations into allegations that are supported by facts, which could be referred to the appropriate district attorney general.

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Jury duty: Legislation by State Rep. Michael Hale, R-Smithville, would reinforce Tennessee's pro-family values by allowing a breastfeeding mother to be excused from jury duty. House Bill 1715 would require a medical statement from a licensed physician to be submitted to the jury coordinator to excuse the absence.

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School facility investments: One lawmaker is aiming to create a way for public schools to invest their savings to fund future capital projects. The School District Capital Improvement Investment Act, or House Bill 224, sponsored by State Rep. Kirk Haston, R-Lobelville, would allow public schools to open a capital project trust to invest surplus funds from their annual budget and generate interest to support future capital projects. Capital investments include construction, renovations, upgrades, modernization and maintenance of school buildings and facilities. House Bill 224 is scheduled to be heard in the Education Committee on Feb. 27.

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Election schedules: Legislation sponsored by State Rep. Scott Cepicky, R-Culleoka, could streamline Tennessee's municipal election process to ensure consistency and transparency. House Bill 1497 would change the date of municipal elections to coincide with the August primary or the November general election, providing predictability and increased accountability for voters. The proposal would also make municipal elections partisan unless a local municipality has a charter provision to the contrary. 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, 2024, presidential election. The proposal will be considered in the House Elections and Campaign Finance Subcommittee in the coming weeks.

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Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day: State Rep. Michael Lankford, R-Palmyra, filed House Bill 1463 to honor the bravery of those who served and lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The bill would require flags flown over the Tennessee State Capitol to be lowered to half-staff each year on Dec. 7 in observance of the anniversary of the attack. House Bill 1463 will be heard in the House Public Service Subcommittee in the coming weeks.

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School safety: Legislation by State Rep. Todd Warner, R-Chapel Hill, seeks to protect students in the Volunteer State. The Tennessee School Safety Act of 2026 would require students to submit to a psychiatric examination if they have been expelled on two or more occasions for threatening mass violence on school property or at a school function. Medical professionals would conduct exams, and students would be permitted to return to the classroom after schools receive documentation that they no longer pose a threat. House Bill 1507 is scheduled to be heard in the House Education Administration Subcommittee on Jan. 27.

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Dangers of communism: House Bill 1805, sponsored by State Rep. Jody Barrett, R-Dickson, would add age- and grade-appropriate instruction on the history of communism in Tennessee schools. The curriculum would include information on atrocities resulting from communism, the threat of the ideology in the United States, economic, industrial and political events that preceded communist revolutions, and several other related topics.

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State of the State: Gov. Bill Lee will deliver his final State of the State address to members of the General Assembly and Tennesseans on Monday, Feb. 2 at 6 p.m. CST. The joint session will be held in the House chamber at the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville. The address will be available on Lee's Facebook and YouTube channels and aired statewide..

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First in Nation: GOP Rolls Out Massive Immigration ReforM

House and Senate Republican leaders closed out the first week of the 2026 legislative session by unveiling a bold slate of bills aimed at strengthening illegal immigration enforcement in Tennessee

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In collaboration with President Donald Trump's administration, House Speaker Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville, Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, R-Oak Ridge, and Republican leaders announced nine key bills as part of their Immigration 2026 reform package. The initiative seeks to close loopholes in current law, prioritize taxpayer resources for legal residents and ensure accountability across the state. “We all support immigrants who have come here legally,” said Sexton. “However, if you are in Tennessee illegally, then you will be asked to provide legal status or referred to ICE. Whether you are seeking public benefits, government jobs, CDL licenses or registering a vehicle. We are committed to protecting tax dollars, reducing fraud and ending sanctuary loopholes.” The proposals build on Tennessee's existing framework, including the General Assembly's establishment of the Centralized Immigration Enforcement Division (CIED) in 2025, to create a more robust, transparent, and accountable system. The comprehensive package directly aligns with President Trump's border security and immigration policies. "Tennesseans deserve a government that fully recognizes its sacred duty to protect the safety, security, and economic well-being of those lawfully in our state,” said House Majority Leader William Lamberth, R-Portland. “Without apology, we will do what it takes to ensure Tennessee never becomes a sanctuary state for illegal immigration. That means supporting law enforcement, closing loopholes, ending incentives for illegal entry and always putting Tennesseans first." Illegal immigration costs Tennessee taxpayers an estimated $971 million in 2023, according to the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIRus.org), a nonprofit advocacy group dedicated to reforming U.S. immigration policy.

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In addition to crime, illegal immigration places massive strains on public services while weak enforcement and inconsistent reporting allow taxpayer-funded benefits, jobs, and licenses to go unchecked. Preliminary reports from the Tennessee District Attorneys General Conference (TDAGC) show law enforcement tracked approximately 11,063 encounters with illegals across Tennessee from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2025. The TDAGC's full report detailing crimes committed by illegal immigrants for 2025 is expected to be released Jan. 30. Current law permits, but does not require, referrals to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This has led to non-cooperation by some locals and provides little transparency for lawmakers or Tennessee taxpayers. The proposals address critical areas, including public benefits, employment, licensing, reporting, education, judicial cooperation and criminalization of illegal entry. These include:

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* Verify lawful status for public benefits which requires state and local governments to verify lawful status before issuing taxpayer-funded benefits. Mandates referrals to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Tennessee’s Centralized Immigration Enforcement Division when status cannot be verified.

Empowers the Tennessee Attorney General to withhold shared sales tax revenue from non-compliant municipalities.

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* Mandatory E-Verify for government jobs which makes E-Verify mandatory for all new state and local government hires. Ends taxpayer-funded employment of illegal labor. Aligns public hiring standards with those already required in the private sector.

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Professional licensing requires proof of lawful status for licensed professions, including teachers, nurses, contractors, and other regulated occupations. Establishes uniform standards across professions.

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* Driver’s licenses and CDL reforms requires verification of lawful status before issuance of driver’s licenses or vehicle registrations. All driver’s license exams are conducted in English, with a one-time limited exception and restricted license requirements.

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* CDL applicants must be able to recognize traffic signs in English, regardless of exam format.

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* Real-time reporting and transparency requires quarterly reports from state agencies on unverifiable immigration status encounters.

Monthly reporting on non-citizens receiving public benefits, coordinated with DHS.

Annual, comprehensive report detailing the total cost of illegal immigration to Tennessee taxpayers, including schools, hospitals, prisons, and social services.

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* K-12 enrollment verification verifies lawful status for K-12 students to ensure transparency, protects classroom resources, and supports long-term planning.

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* Mandatory court and law enforcement cooperation requires courts and local law enforcement to cooperate with ICE and enhance 287(g) agreements. Establishes clear penalties for jurisdictions that obstruct enforcement or ignore state law.

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* Illegal entry and re-entry as a state crime makes illegal entry and re-entry a state criminal offense

Requires fingerprinting and DNA collection for offenders in custody.

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"Tennessee taxpayers deserve to know their hard-earned dollars are supporting lawful residents and essential services for Tennesseans—not subsidizing illegal activity," said the package sponsors. "This comprehensive reform closes dangerous gaps, strengthens enforcement, and upholds the rule of law while protecting our communities, schools, and public resources."

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House Passes Protections for Children from Explicit Content

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House Republicans wasted no time passing bills to promote family values, approving legislation on the first day of the legislative session to build on Tennessee's existing protections for children from inappropriate adult entertainment. House Bill 884 (https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0884) sponsored by State Rep. Chris Todd, R-Madison County, expands the definition of adult cabaret to include single or multiple performances by adult entertainers, ensuring children are protected from sexually explicit entertainment even at businesses that aren't considered adult-oriented establishments. “The Volunteer State leads the nation in passing common-sense policies to protect children from dangerous left-wing social policies,” Todd said. “This legislation is a key step in ensuring minors are not exposed to sexually explicit entertainment, whether it be at an adult bookstore or a local civic center.” Current Tennessee law prohibits establishments that focus on selling or providing adult-oriented materials or entertainment from being located within 1,000 feet of a childcare facility, public park, family recreation center, home, church or school. House Bill 884 clarifies that any establishment hosting an adult cabaret must abide by the 1,000-foot rule. The companion version of House Bill 884 is still advancing through the Senate.

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Proposal would ease cost of groceries for seniors

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A new proposal seeks to ease the cost of living for senior citizens in Tennessee. House Bill 1486, sponsored by State Rep. Michael Hale, R-Smithville, would provide a sales tax exemption on the retail sale of food and food ingredients for Tennesseans aged 65 and older.

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"Tennessee’s aging adults have spent a lifetime working, raising families and contributing to their communities. They deserve security and dignity in retirement, " Hale said. "By taking steps to reduce everyday costs for basic necessities, we can make life a little easier and help them maintain their independence."

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During the 113th General Assembly, the General Assembly passed the largest tax cut in state history, including a three-month grocery tax holiday through the Tennessee Works Tax Act of 2023 and franchise and excise tax reform. The Volunteer State remains one of the lowest-taxed states in the nation and collects zero state income tax.

Tennessee Retirement Savings Plan Act proposed

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A new proposal seeks to build on efforts to promote strong families and long-term financial stability. The Tennessee Retirement Savings Plan Act, sponsored by State Rep. Charlie Baum, R-Murfreesboro, would create a state-facilitated, employee-funded retirement savings plan similar to a 401(k) for Tennesseans who don't have access to one through their employer.

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"Every hardworking Tennessean deserves the opportunity to save for retirement, whether they work for a small business, are self-employed, or otherwise don't have a plan through their job," Baum said.

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Participation would be voluntary, and accounts would be individually owned, allowing workers to retain their savings when changing jobs or roll funds into another retirement account. The plan would be created, designed and overseen by a seven-member board within the Tennessee Department of Treasury and professionally managed by a private, third-party provider.

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One in five Americans over the age of 50 has no retirement savings and more than half worry they will not have enough money to support themselves in retirement, according to a 2024 study by the AARP.

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Lawmakers Return to Capitol FOR 2026 SESSION

Republicans Prioritize Fiscal Health, Government Efficiency

https://www.tn.gov/transparenttn/governors-priorities/fiscal-strength-efficient-government.html

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State lawmakers are finalizing legislative priorities in preparation for the second session of the 114th Tennessee General Assembly.

Republicans will continue their efforts to make the Volunteer State the most successful in the nation by improving public safety, managing public funds wisely and working with President Donald J. Trump's administration to address illegal immigration. The 75-member supermajority has led the nation in passing conservative priorities, including a prohibition on minors undergoing irreversible and harmful medical procedures to change their gender identity, which the U.S. Supreme Court upheld in June. Several legislative task forces created in the first session of the 114th General Assembly met over the summer to discuss topics including K-12 testing standards, solid waste management and federal education deregulation. State representatives can introduce up to 10 bills. The second legislative session is scheduled to convene at noon on Jan. 13..

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The House Finance, Ways and Means Committee, in late October 2024, held a series of budget hearings to review the performance and financial status of state agencies since 2020.

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Led by House Finance, Ways and Means Committee Chair Gary Hicks, R-Rogersville, the hearings were part of the Republican supermajority's ongoing efforts to ensure transparency, accountability and fiscal responsibility in state government. T served as a key step in preparing for the upcoming legislative session and for developing the state's 2026-27 state budget.

Department heads and agency leaders appeared before lawmakers to provide detailed updates on spending, program outcomes and future funding needs. Committee members focused on how taxpayer dollars have been utilized over the past five years and identified opportunities for greater efficiency across state operations.

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“Every dollar the state spends belongs to the people of Tennessee,” Hicks said. “Our responsibility is to make sure those dollars are being used wisely and effectively. By taking a close look at agency performance over the last five years, we can better understand what’s working, where improvements are needed, and how to ensure Tennessee remains on a strong fiscal path.”

Eugene Neubert, deputy commissioner for the Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, provided committee members with an overview of the state's financial health, focusing on the strategic investments the state has made since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and the effects of expiring federal dollars on ongoing operations.

"Over the past several years, Tennessee has faced challenges unlike any in our history. We've seen a global pandemic, we've had economic uncertainty, yet through it all, our state has emerged stronger," he said..

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Neubert discussed how the state leveraged COVID-19 relief funds, including $2.3 billion from the CARES Act and $3.7 billion from the American Rescue Plan.

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These funds were used to help stabilize Tennessee jobs, expand educational resources, modernize infrastructure and broadband, as well as bolster key industries such as health care, agriculture, and tourism.

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"Tennessee didn't just weather the storm; we built a stronger foundation for our future," Neubert said. "From stabilizing communities in crisis to modernizing the infrastructure that will serve future generations, these investments reflect a legacy of resilience, equity, and opportunity for every Tennessean."

Major investments by the state over the last five years include $4.3 billion for transportation, $3.9 billion for capital outlay and maintenance, $3.1 billion for higher education, and $1 billion for workforce development.

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Tennessee’s conservative budgeting practices have positioned the state as a national leader in fiscal stability and economic growth.

Since 2012, Tennessee’s Republican supermajority has delivered more than $5.2 billion in tax relief to citizens. The Volunteer State collects no income tax and consistently ranks among the most fiscally responsible and lowest-taxed states in the nation.

Tennesseans can explore how their tax dollars are spent through an interactive budget transparency tool available on the state’s official website.

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HB958 - Preparing for Federal Education Deregulation

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0675&GA=114

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As the Trump administration moves to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and return control to the states, Tennessee lawmakers are preparing for potential shifts in oversight and funding. In April, the Tennessee General Assembly passed legislation establishing the Federal Education Deregulation Cooperation Task Force to ensure the state can effectively respond to any deregulation or dismantling of the ED. The seven-member task force met several times over the last eight months to discuss what the future would look like without federal education oversight. It identified the federal K-12 funding Tennessee receives, federal requirements tied to those dollars, state resources needed to manage them and the number of positions supported by federal funds. The group also discussed programs and resources supported by federal funds. The task force has submitted its final recommendations to the General Assembly..

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HB675 - Republicans Launch K-12 Innovation Effort

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0675&GA=114

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Tennessee lawmakers passed legislation this spring establishing the Advisory Committee on Innovations in K-12 Education to analyze changes to various education requirements and policies to improve outcomes for students and educators. The 10-member committee heard from state officials and school administrators on a variety of topics as they evaluated standardized testing, attendance, principal and teacher evaluations, screening requirements for Response to Intervention (RTI) in schools, health coverage and compensation for educators, expansion of teacher permits and the option to allow Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses to substitute for certain graduation requirements. The establishment of the task force is part of Tennessee Republicans' ongoing efforts to improve academic outcomes through innovative solutions. Proposed strategies and recommendations have been reported to the General Assembly and the Tennessee Department of Education.

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House welcomes newest member

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State Rep. Michael Lankford, R-Palmyra, was sworn in this week to represent District 75 in the Tennessee House of Representatives. Lankford was appointed by the Montgomery County Commission to fill the vacancy left by the passing of former State Rep. Jeff Burkhart. “Today, I took an oath to uphold our state constitution, discharge my duties responsibly and serve the people of Tennessee with integrity,” Lankford said. “That oath reflects the heart of why I have always felt called to serve. To uphold that vow through this office is the honor of a lifetime, and I look forward to advancing the values and priorities of District 75 and the state of Tennessee.” Lankford was sworn in by Tennessee Supreme Court Justice Sarah Keeton Campbell on the first day of the 2026 legislative session.

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Briefly…

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Expanding firefighter protections: New legislation seeks to strengthen medical protections for firefighters in Tennessee. House Bill 1489, sponsored by State Rep. Jerome Moon, R-Maryville, would extend existing cancer presumption coverage to arson investigators, ensuring their cancer diagnoses are presumed to be work-related and eligible for the same protections afforded to firefighters.

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Education Freedom Scholarship applications: Families in Tennessee can apply for the Education Freedom Scholarship program until 4 p.m. CST on Jan. 30 for the 2026-27 school year. The Tennessee Department of Education began accepting applications for current participants on Dec. 9 and for all applicants on Jan. 13. More than 50,300 new and renewal applications have already been received, with approximately half qualifying for income-prioritized scholarships. Nearly 100% of previously-enrolled families have applied to renew their scholarship. A waitlist will be established, and families are encouraged to continue submitting applications.

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Bill filing deadline approaching: The bill filing deadline for the 2026 legislative session is Friday, Jan. 30. As of Thursday, more than 250 bills had already been filed in the House.

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State of the State: Gov. Bill Lee will deliver his final State of the State address to members of the General Assembly and Tennesseans on Monday, Feb. 2.

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State offices will be closed in observance of the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, Jan. 19. Members of the House of Representatives return to Capitol Hill on Tuesday, Jan. 20.

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Gov. Lee Announces Resources Impacted by SHUTDOWN

Gov. Lee Announces Resources for Tennesseans Impacted by Democrat-Led Federal Government Shutdown

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http://FeedTN.org

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Launches FeedTN.org to mobilize rapid response across the state

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Today, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee provided more information on statewide resources available to Tennesseans impacted by the Democrat-led federal government shutdown. The Governor announced the launch of FeedTN.org, a platform that will connect Tennesseans with resources and opportunities to serve.

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The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has informed all states that there will be insufficient funding to cover November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits if the shutdown continues, and the longer Democrats wait to reopen the government, the more delays customers can expect as the program restarts. Any remaining benefits from previous months may still be accessed in November.

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“Democrats can ensure hardworking Tennessee families receive the resources they need by reopening the federal government now,” said Gov. Lee. “Their failure to fund federal nutrition programs cannot be solved by states, and the void cannot be filled with temporary fixes that would only drain state resources and prolong the misery of this shutdown. I’m grateful to the nonprofit and faith-based partners who are stepping up to fill the gap and sincerely hope that Democrats choose to reopen the federal government – not only to serve SNAP recipients, but also the millions of Tennesseans who are forced to pay the consequences of their disappointing failure.”

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The SNAP program is federally funded and operated, and Tennessee is unable to utilize state dollars to provide the benefit, as states do not have a mechanism to load benefits onto customer cards.

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The Governor’s Faith Based and Community Initiative (GFBCI) is communicating daily with a coalition of more than 300 non-profit and faith community leaders to identify needs, share information, and mobilize rapid response across all 95 counties.

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Tennesseans should visit FeedTN.org to connect with resources and opportunities to serve. By entering their ZIP code, users may:

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Find local food distribution and volunteer opportunities

Contribute directly with food donations or financial gifts to vetted community partners

Access ready-to-use communication assets for houses of worship and organizations to inform their communities

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The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) has collaborated with a number of state departments, in addition to the Governor’s Faith Based and Community Initiative and Tennessee Serves, to identify resources for Tennesseans who may be facing food insecurity due to the shutdown.

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Rural and farming communities are the backbone of Tennessee’s food supply, and the SNAP program supports farmers, grocers, and retailers across the state’s rural economies. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) continues to administer The Emergency Food Assistance Program in partnership with Tennessee’s five regional food banks to strengthen access to nutritious foods statewide.

TennCare’s CHOICES program provides a daily meal delivery benefit for older adults and adults with physical disabilities enrolled in the program. This benefit will continue despite the federal government shutdown, and adults enrolled in TennCare should reach out to their health plan if they need help requesting this benefit. Through TennCare’s Community Compass website, Tennesseans may connect with local organizations offering free or low-cost services such as medical care, food assistance, job training, and more.

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Additional Food Resources:

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Mid-South Food Bank: https://www.midsouthfoodbank.org/find-food

Chattanooga Area Food Bank: https://chattfoodbank.org/hungry

Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee: https://netfoodbank.org/help/

Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee: https://secondharvestetn.org/find-a-food-pantry/

Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee: https://www.secondharvestmidtn.org/find-resources/find-food/

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Additional Community Resources:

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TN Community Compass: https://communitycompass.tn.gov/

TN Disability Pathfinder: https://www.tnpathfinder.org/

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Dial 2-1-1, or search for local resources online:

Chattanooga 2-1-1: https://team211.communityos.org

Memphis 2-1-1: https://team211.communityos.org/linc211memphis

Nashville 2-1-1: https://team211.communityos.org/homepage-uwgn

Knoxville 2-1-1: https://easttn211.communityos.org

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Individuals and organizations who would like to assist with food donations and additional support services may fill out the form here.

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TDHS is closely monitoring the federal government shutdown and will update their website as more information becomes available.

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Tennessee and Arkansas Unveil Name for New I-55 Bridge

The new I-55 bridge spanning the Mississippi River in Memphis will be known as "Kings' Crossing"

Tennessee and Arkansas Unveil Name for the New I-55 Bridge in Memphis: "Kings' Crossing"

A Tribute to Local Legends

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Memphis, Tennessee — In a powerful celebration of culture and history, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) and the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) proudly announce that the new iconic Interstate 55 (I-55) bridge spanning the Mississippi River between Memphis, Tennessee, and West Memphis, Arkansas, will be known as "Kings' Crossing".

This new name, officially adopted by the Tennessee General Assembly and the Arkansas Highway Commission, honors three transformative figures known as "Kings": Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., B.B. King and Elvis Presley.

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“Kings’ Crossing is more than just a piece of infrastructure; it is a symbol of our collective history, heritage, and the enduring spirit of unity that defines this region. Naming this bridge in honor of these gentlemen pays tribute to their extraordinary legacies – individuals who transcended barriers, fostered cultural exchange, and used their talents to build bridges between people.” said TDOT Commissioner Will Reid.

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"It's only fitting to name this vital crossing after three historic figures from this region, We're grateful for the partnership and collaboration with TDOT on this project. It truly is the result of a regional effort that will benefit industry across this national corridor and the thousands of individuals who depend on this connection each day." said ARDOT Director Jared Wiley.

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In July 2024, the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded a landmark federal investment in Tennessee and Arkansas of nearly $400 million toward half the cost of replacing the I-55 Bridge over the Mississippi River. In addition to the nearly $400 million from the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program, TDOT, utilizing a state general fund allocation provided through the Transportation Modernization Act, and the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) have each committed up to $200 million, demonstrating a collaborative effort to fund this bridge replacement. This marks the single-largest transportation investment in Tennessee and Arkansas' state history.

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The I-55 Bridge, a vital link for national commerce, is set to undergo a comprehensive overhaul to add capacity, improve safety standards, ensure route resiliency, and maintain optimal operational conditions. The existing bridge, which has served travelers for 75 years since its construction, will be replaced with a larger structure designed to meet modern seismic codes, as it sits on the New Madrid fault line.

The environmental process is wrapping up on the I-55 Bridge Replacement project. Design is underway, and Right-of-Way coordination should begin later this year. Construction is estimated to start in fiscal year 2026. TDOT and ARDOT are partnering to design and construct the bridge utilizing the Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) project delivery method. CM/GC is used for complex projects, aligning technical direction, organizational structure, and budgets with the department's strategic vision.

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For more information about the proposed project, visit TDOT's website https://tn.gov/tdot/projects/region-4/americas-river-crossing-i55-bridge.html

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Susan Lynn RECEIVES MAJOR ENDORCEMENTS

SUSAN LYNN IS RATED #1 MOST CONSERVATIVE IN TN HOUSE LEGISLATURE!

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NASHVILLE TN - Susan Lynn has been rated the #1 most conservative TN State House Legislator. Tennessee Stands is an organization which supports small government, religious freedoms and putting Tennessee first. Susan is the District 57 TN State Representative committed to stand for common sense, conservative leadership in Tennessee. More info @ https://tnreportcard.org

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Susan Lynn Is Endorsed by Professional Firefighters!

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Susan is proud to announce that the Tennessee Professional Firefighters Association has once again given her their full endorsement. The TPFFA works to serve the interests of all persons engaged in full time firefighting, fire prevention, fire instructors, EMS, fire/EMS dispatch and other emergency related services in the state of Tennessee. Susan appreciates the continued trust that TPFFA places in her as she works for the success of Tennessee.

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Susan Lynn Graded 100% for Student Success! Thanks to Tennesseans for Student Success for giving Susan a 100% score in their 2023-2024 report card. TSS is a statewide network of parents, guardians, teachers and community leaders that champions economic freedom and mobility for all Tennesseans by supporting high-quality educational opportunities and working to ensure every Tennessee student has access to a great public education. The success of our students is something Susan values greatly and she will continue working hard to create improvements in the education system. Check out her report card here! https://tnsuccesscard.com/#/legislator/17700

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Thanks to Tennessee Right to Life for giving Susan Lynn their endorsement! The right to life and the care of children, both unborn and born, is something Susan greatly values. As your state representative, she will continue to protect children across Tennessee!

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WilsonHelps.org

WilsonHelps.org

TN STATE REP. SUSAN LYNN - 2026 LEGISLATIVE UPDATES

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE MAR 20, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE MAR 13, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE MAR 6, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES FEB 27, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES FEB 20, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE FEB 13, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE FEB 6, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE JAN 30, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE JAN 22, 2026

First in Nation: GOP Rolls Out Massive Immigration ReforM

Lawmakers Return to Capitol FOR 2026 SESSION

Gov. Lee Announces Resources Impacted by SHUTDOWN

Tennessee and Arkansas Unveil Name for New I-55 Bridge

Susan Lynn RECEIVES MAJOR ENDORCEMENTS

WilsonHelps.org

WilsonHelps.org

TN STATE REP. SUSAN LYNN - 2026 LEGISLATIVE UPDATES

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE MAR 20, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE MAR 13, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE MAR 6, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES FEB 27, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES FEB 20, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE FEB 13, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE FEB 6, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE JAN 30, 2026

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE JAN 22, 2026

First in Nation: GOP Rolls Out Massive Immigration ReforM

﻿Lawmakers Return to Capitol FOR 2026 SESSION

Gov. Lee Announces Resources Impacted by SHUTDOWN

Tennessee and Arkansas Unveil Name for New I-55 Bridge

Susan Lynn RECEIVES MAJOR ENDORCEMENTS

Lawmakers Return to Capitol FOR 2026 SESSION