HB 608 prohibits Tennessee state and local governments from requiring builders or developers to fund infrastructure that isn't essential to their specific project. It specifically prevents governments from mandating payment for non-adjacent infrastructure or infrastructure beyond what was initially estimated for the development. The bill applies only to residential projects under 300 homes or multi-family housing under 500 units, covering elements like roads, utilities, or internet cabling not directly needed for the property's creation, maintenance, or growth. It does not affect existing zoning, tax laws, or permits, and takes effect July 1, 2025, for new contracts.
HB 766 adds a 5% penalty to overdue property taxes in Tennessee. The penalty money will fund tax relief for elderly low-income homeowners, disabled homeowners, disabled veterans, and widows of disabled veterans. The penalty is calculated only on the base amount of overdue taxes (excluding interest or other penalties). This change takes effect July 1, 2025.
SB 1200 allocates 1% of revenue generated from sports gaming in Tennessee to the Department of Veterans Services starting July 1, 2025. This funding directly supports state veterans services programs, including counseling, housing assistance, and other support initiatives for veterans. The bill amends multiple Tennessee Code sections to redirect this specific portion of sports gaming revenue to the veterans department. It does not change existing allocations for other services, such as the 4% currently dedicated to mental health and substance abuse services.
HB 757 extends the notice period for tenants fleeing domestic abuse, sexual assault, or stalking from 30 to 45 days to terminate a rental agreement. It requires tenants to provide written notice and documentation of their victim status to landlords to trigger this longer window. The bill directly affects tenants in these situations and their landlords by giving victims more time to safely vacate properties without immediate eviction risk. This change updates Tennessee's residential rental laws (affecting multiple code sections) to prioritize safety for vulnerable tenants.
HB 1327 removes a requirement that the Tennessee General Assembly must approve rural and workforce housing tax credits through a joint resolution. This change directly affects the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA), which administers these credits, by allowing it to manage the program without needing separate legislative authorization. The bill amends two specific sections of law to delete the existing authorization language while preserving the 2024 law's allocation rules (e.g., 50% of credits must go to rural projects). The key policy change is shifting the approval process from the legislature to the THDA's existing administrative authority. This takes effect July 1, 2025.
SB 785 limits local governments in Tennessee from requiring more than one entrance or exit for new housing subdivisions unless they contain at least 70 homes. It directly affects subdivision developers (especially for smaller projects) and local planning commissions, cities, and counties that previously could mandate multiple access points. The bill prohibits these local entities from enforcing such requirements for subdivisions with fewer than 70 residential units, making any conflicting rule void. It amends Tennessee zoning codes (Titles 4, 5, 6, 7, and 13) to establish this statewide standard. The law takes effect July 1, 2025, applying to new or amended planning regulations after that date.
HB 765 requires that 10% of excess proceeds from delinquent property tax sales in Tennessee be allocated to provide tax relief for specific homeowners. It directly affects elderly low-income residents, disabled individuals, disabled veterans, and widows of disabled veterans. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 67, Chapter 5, by adding a new provision directing these funds to a dedicated tax relief program under "part 7" of the chapter. The law would take effect on July 1, 2025, if passed.
HB 1068 creates a Community Grant Advisory Board within Tennessee's Department of Human Services to manage a new grant program supporting community-based nonprofit organizations. The bill establishes a special fund in the state general budget, initially appropriating $1 million to award grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 to eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving communities in education, health, housing, social services, or economic development. Grants require applicants to demonstrate need, outline project plans, and prioritize community-driven solutions, with priority given to organizations led by community members they serve. The board must report annually on fund usage and recipient progress, with unspent funds carried forward annually.
HB 744 prohibits organizations or entities receiving Tennessee state financial assistance for programs or activities from denying benefits, excluding participants, or discriminating against eligible individuals based on race, color, religion, or national origin. This applies directly to state-funded programs, such as those providing services or support through state grants. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, to establish this non-discrimination requirement as a condition for receiving state funds. It creates a clear policy change requiring state-funded programs to operate without bias against protected characteristics.
SB 806 changes Tennessee eviction procedures for cases based on nonpayment of rent. It requires eviction trials to occur within 14 days of filing (down from a previous minimum of 6 days), limits court hearings to only rent-related issues like lease terms and payment history, and gives tenants 7 days to move after a judgment. This directly affects tenants facing eviction and landlords filing nonpayment lawsuits. The bill aims to streamline the process while narrowing court focus to rent disputes.
