Criminal Procedure - As introduced, removes the requirement for a petitioner for restoration of citizenship or an applicant for a certificate of employability to pay the costs of the proceedings; makes other changes to the process for restoration of citizenship. - Amends TCA Title 40, Chapter 29.

HB 1554 eliminates fees for individuals seeking to restore citizenship rights or obtain a certificate of employability in Tennessee. Specifically, it removes the requirement for petitioners to pay court costs related to citizenship restoration proceedings and employability applications under Tennessee law. The bill amends multiple sections of state code (40-29-103 and 40-29-107) to delete cost-related provisions and redundant language like "certified." This change directly affects people, including formerly incarcerated individuals seeking voting rights or employment clearances, by reducing financial barriers to these processes. The law takes effect July 1, 2026.