Finance, Ways and Means

HB 1817 requires commercial drivers in Tennessee to demonstrate sufficient English language skills to read, speak, understand traffic signs, communicate with officials, and complete reports - aligning with federal rules (49 CFR 391.11(b)(2)). If an enforcement officer determines during a safety inspection that a driver cannot meet these requirements, they must issue an out-of-service order, and the driver’s commercial license may be suspended until they pass a state-administered English proficiency test. Employers face a $500 fine for violations (classified as a Class C misdemeanor), though exemptions apply for drivers with hearing-related exemptions documented under federal rules. The bill amends Tennessee Code Sections 55-50-403, 55-50-405, and 65-15-111 to implement these requirements, with full enforcement scheduled for January 1, 2027.

HB 2309 requires courts to impose a fine of at least twice the actual property damage or restoration costs when vandalism occurs at a house of worship, in addition to any other sentence. This applies specifically to offenses committed at religious buildings, directly affecting houses of worship that suffer damage and the courts sentencing offenders. The law amends Tennessee sentencing guidelines (TCA Title 39) to mandate this automatic double-fine calculation based on verified costs, overriding standard sentencing discretion for these cases. The bill would take effect on July 1, 2026, if passed.

HB 2210 requires Tennessee's Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) to provide the state legislature with specific recommendations on disaster preparedness, prevention, and mitigation. The bill directs TEMA to propose measures aimed at eliminating emergencies or reducing their impact, as well as improving disaster response capabilities. This applies directly to TEMA, which must develop these recommendations, and the General Assembly, which will review them. The bill amends existing Tennessee law (TCA Title 58) to formalize this requirement, without creating new regulations or funding. It focuses on strengthening proactive planning rather than reactive measures.

HB 1710 requires Tennessee counties, cities, and towns (local governmental entities) to verify applicants' U.S. citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S. before distributing public benefits. This applies to all applicants aged 18+ seeking federal, state, or local benefits, with implementation required by updating forms or systems after July 1, 2026. The bill authorizes the attorney general to investigate violations of these verification rules and mandates local entities to maintain applicant documentation. It also specifies that benefits cannot be delayed solely while verification is pending, and final verification failures trigger benefit termination.

HB 162 amends Tennessee law to allow the division of property assessment to submit its annual report to the state board of equalization using electronic formats (e.g., email or online systems) instead of requiring physical copies. This change directly affects the division of property assessment, a state agency responsible for property tax assessments, and the state board of equalization, which receives the report. The bill updates reporting procedures without altering the report's content or requirements, streamlining administrative processes. It does not impact taxpayers or change tax policies.