department of tourism tn

About Tennessee Department of Tourist Development

Tennessee tourism generated $28.9 billion in domestic and international travel spending in 2022, according to recently released economic impact data from U.S. Travel Association and Tourism Economics. It also marks the largest visitor spending nationally in Tennessee’s history. Travelers in Tennessee spend an estimated $79 million per day. Travel in Tennessee generated $2.9 billion in state and local tax revenue. Travel and tourism is also the fourth largest employer in the state.  

The department also operates 16 Welcome Centers along the interstate highway system in Tennessee. Each of the Welcome Centers is equipped with a toll-free telephone system allowing travelers to make hotel, motel, and campground reservations anywhere in Tennessee, as well as free Wi-Fi.

The great news as we plan for the next four years is that tourism is thriving in Tennessee. As world-class investors in lodging, attractions and restaurants see the business opportunity in Tennessee – so do we. - Commissioner Mark Ezell

Mission To increase the state’s economic viability and support the growth of tourism in all 95 counties by inspiring travel, developing programs and enhancing industry partnerships which drive job creation, tax revenue and new investments, thereby enriching the quality of life for every Tennessean.

Vision To be the global music destination of choice; a diverse American experience offering family fun, outdoor adventure, live entertainment, sporting events, festivals and a showcase of craftsmanship at the crossroads of rich history, local cuisine and renowned scenic beauty.

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Tennessee Celebrates Record $27.5 Billion in Travel Spending in 2022

This National Travel and Tourism Week, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development Commissioner Mark Ezell and Sevier County tourism leaders announced new milestones today in Pigeon Forge, including a record $27.5 billion in travel spending in 2022, according to preliminary data from U.S. Travel and Tourism Economics. Among the top 25 states, Tennessee is the fastest-growing state in travel spending since 2018 and has risen from 14th to 11th in the nation for travel spending.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (May 9, 2023) – This National Travel and Tourism Week, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development Commissioner Mark Ezell and Sevier County tourism leaders announced new milestones today in Pigeon Forge, including a record $27.5 billion in travel spending in 2022, according to preliminary data from U.S. Travel and Tourism Economics. Among the top 25 states, Tennessee is the fastest-growing state in travel spending since 2018 and has risen from 14th to 11th in the nation for travel spending.

“Tourism is a top driver of economic growth and job creation across our state, giving Tennesseans even greater opportunities to thrive,” said Gov. Bill Lee. “As we celebrate another record year for tourism in Tennessee, we’re committed to ensuring that our state remains a top destination for travel.”

The leisure and hospitality industry plays an essential role in Tennessee’s economy and employs over 352,000 Tennesseans. While good for the industry, the news also benefits the entire state. As the state’s 2nd leading industry, tourism is a significant source of tax revenue for Tennessee contributing $1.8 billion in state sales tax collections in 2022.

“Tennessee’s tourism, leisure and hospitality industry is leading the nation, and we are grateful to our hardworking industry for making these historic new milestones possible,” said Commissioner Mark Ezell, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “Visitors come for our incredible scenic beauty, dining and world-class attractions, and keep coming back for our unmatched hospitality. There’s nowhere better to live, work and play than Tennessee.”

This news comes during National Travel and Tourism Week, an annual celebration of the industry which spotlights the essential role travel plays in economic growth and innovation. Visitors are invited to stop in any of Tennessee’s 16 Welcome Centers this week to get a taste of area destinations.

BY THE NUMBERS:

• Tennessee reached a record $27.5 billion in visitor spending in 2022, marking a $3 billion increase (+14%) over 2021, according to U.S. Travel.
• Travel spending propelled Tennessee to 11th in the nation for travel spending in 2021 and 2022, up from its previous record of 14 in 2020. (Preliminary rankings released April 2023 by U.S. Travel).
• The industry contributed $1.8 billion in actual state sales tax collections in 2022.

New county-level data is expected in August 2023.

ABOUT NATIONAL TRAVEL AND TOURISM WEEK : Established in 1983, National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) is an annual tradition to celebrate the U.S. travel community and travel’s essential role in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, creating quality job opportunities, inspiring new businesses and elevating the quality of life for Americans every day. May 7-13, 2023, marks the 40th anniversary of NTTW. Travel is integral to every industry and nearly everything we do.

ABOUT TENNESSEE DEPT. OF TOURIST DEVELOPMENT: Tennessee is the home of the blues, bluegrass, country, gospel, soul, rockabilly, and rock ‘n’ roll— delivering an unparalleled experience of beauty, history, and family adventure, infused with music that creates a vacation that is the “Soundtrack of America. Made in Tennessee.” Explore more at TNvacation.com and join other Tennessee travelers by following “TNVacation” on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and YouTube, and “Tennessee” on Snapchat.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Amanda Murphy, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development [email protected]

Jill Kilgore, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development [email protected]

Alli Lapps, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development [email protected]

Director of Communications [email protected] 615-741-9010

Senior Communications Manager [email protected] 615-9 27-1320

Communications Manager [email protected]  

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Department of Tourism

Department of Tourism P.O. Box 1390 135 Jake Thomas Road Pigeon Forge, TN  37868 Phone: 865-453-8574 Toll Free: 800-251-9100 Fax:  865-429-7362 [email protected]   If you are planning a vacation or weekend getaway to Pigeon Forge, please visit  MyPigeonForge.com   to learn about everything our city has to offer and see why we are the center of fun in the Smokies!   Click here to begin planning your visit .   If you are interested in opening a business in Pigeon Forge, please make sure to visit the Department of Tourism. We can provide all the information you need to become a vital partner in one of the top destinations in the Southeast.

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Tennessee Tourism Outperforms The Nation With Record $24 Billion In Domestic Travel Spending In 2021

• Tuesday, August 30, 2022

Tennessee tourism generated $24.2 billion in domestic and international travel spending in 2021, according to recently released economic impact data from U.S. Travel Association and Tourism Economics. It also marks the largest visitor spending nationally in Tennessee’s history. Travelers in Tennessee spend an estimated $66 million per day. Travel in Tennessee generated $1.9 billion in state and local tax revenue. Travel and tourism is also the third largest employer in the state.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and Department of Tourist Development Commissioner Mark Ezell highlighted efforts to continue the industry’s strong recovery.  

“Tourism drives economic development and job creation so that every Tennessean can thrive,” said Governor Lee. “Our decision to prioritize strong recovery has yielded record levels of tourism growth, and we continue to welcome visitors to see all Tennessee has to offer, from the Mississippi River to the Great Smoky Mountains.”

“Tennessee is crushing it with the largest visitor spending national market share for Tennesseans in our history,” said Mark Ezell, commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “Tennessee is one of the top travel destinations in the world because of our tremendous assets including our unmatched scenic beauty, diverse cities, and small towns, as well as our world class attractions, music, cultural and historical sites. We’re so grateful to this industry and our partners and blessed visitors come experience these destinations and support local businesses, local restaurants and local lodging and support communities.”

Key Highlights from 2021 report :

• Tennessee tourism generated a record $24 billion in domestic travel spending  
• Travel and tourism is the third largest employer in TN in 2021
• Travelers in Tennessee spend an estimated $66 million per day. Visitor spending in Tennessee increased by 44.4%, year over year. Visitor spending nationally increased by 35.7%, year over year
• All 95 counties saw an increase in visitor spending over 2020
• 51 counties fully recovered and exceeded their 2019 visitor spending record
• Nine counties experienced more than 40% growth in year-over-year travel spending, including Davidson, Cheatham, Sevier, Union, Polk, Grundy, Knox, Blount and Hamilton
• Five counties experienced more than 40% growth over 2019 travel spending, including: Cheatham, Union, Lake, Hickman and Meigs
• Travel in Tennessee generated $1.9 billion in state and local tax revenue in 2021
• Travel-generated tax revenue generated by tourism saved each Tennessee household $755.41 in state and local taxes last year

Leisure & Hospitality Industry Highlights   (source: TN Dept. of Revenue & TN Department of Labor & Workforce Development)

• Leisure & hospitality industries supported 317,000 jobs in 2021, an 8% increase from 2020 and 91% of 2019 levels
• Leisure & hospitality revenues have recovered to record levels and outpaced inflation
• Leisure & hospitality employment has returned to pre-pandemic levels but still struggles to keep up with travel demand
• Average leisure & hospitality wages have surged as the industry competes for a limited number of workers. Leisure & hospitality wages increased to $17.71 in June 2020, compared to $14.14 in 2020.

The   2021 Economic Impact on Travel Report   includes county data and comprehensive models of the economic impact of spending by industry. Partners and media can utilize the new   online interactive dashboard   for the latest state and county information. Economic Impact on Travel Report booklets will be handed out at the   Governor’s Conference on Hospitality & Tourism   Sept. 28-30 in Memphis.

The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development works with the Tennessee Tourism Committee, local convention and visitors’ bureaus, chambers of commerce, city and county leaders, tourism attractions and the hospitality industry in all 95 counties to inspire travel to the state.

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Welcome to historic Sullivan County, Tennessee! A premier tourist destination, Historic Sullivan is renowned for the quality and diversity of its attractions. One of the most beautiful areas in Northeast Tennessee, Sullivan County is fortunate to be one of the most widely visited areas in the state. The county offers a wide array of tourist attractions ranging from the famed Bristol Motor Speedway to various historic sites and repositories.

We're glad you are here! Serving the citizens of Sullivan County and our visitors is an honor and a responsibility that we take very seriously! Our office seeks to provide you with the excellent customer service that all citizens deserve.

Visit our new Heritage Tourism Information Center... Opened in November 2019, our Sullivan County Heritage Tourism Information Center is located at 1575 Hwy. 394, Blountville, TN 37617. A post-Civil War era structure, the newly restored facility will be used to promote and showcase the rich cultural heritage of Sullivan County, Tennessee.

The Heritage Tourism Information Center’s mission is (1) To showcase the attractions of Historic Sullivan; (2) To serve as a starting point for walking tour of Blountville; (3)  To highlight the Civil War Battle of Blountville.  The center’s first exhibit is a Civil War display which has been installed on the ground floor. Plans are underway for two of the tourism center’s room to be dedicated to Civil War exhibits and exhibits on local and regional history. Angela Crane serves as the Marketing Associate for the Department of Archives and Tourism. The center will be open Wednesday through Friday of each week, with hours and days open set to expand in the near future.  Hours for the Tourism Center will be Wednesday 10 AM to 4:30 PM; Thursday, 9 AM to 4:30 PM, and Friday, 9 AM to 4:30 PM. Hours and days open are set to expand in the near future. [Special note: Due to the COVID-19 situation, our operating hours and will be limited. Please see Special Press Release above.]

Hours of Operation

• Archives and History Research Center , 3425 Hwy. 126, Blountville, TN 37617 8 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday
• Heritage Tourism Information Center & Museum , 1575 Hwy. 394, Blountville TN 37617 Mon., 12 noon to 4:30pm Tues., 12 noon to 4:30pm Wed. thru Fri., 8am to 4:30pm

From country music to our beautiful Northeast Tennessee mountains, from the Bristol Motor Speedway to Historic Rocky Mount, we think Sullivan County has it all! We are so blessed! When we look around us and see how beautiful historic Sullivan County is, we realize that preserving and showcasing our rich heritage is critically imperative. Our ancestors settled in this beautiful section of East Tennessee over two centuries ago. Remembering the past and those who have gone before us takes us back into yesterday, maybe a century or two, into a world whose heritage is well worth preserving and sharing. Check out our showcase of attractions in the video just below!

View site map page or see our Upcoming Events

Pigeon Forge is one of the most popular family vacation destinations in the Southeast and the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism is your one-stop shop for information on Pigeon Forge. Our friendly staff are here to welcome you with open arms into the community.

Whether you have questions on where to go or what to do in Pigeon Forge, we’re happy to assist with advice on which attractions and events to visit, area maps to help you get around, money-saving coupons and answers to just about any other questions you might have about our wonderful mountain town.

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JOHNSON COUNTY TN GOVERNMENT

Johnson County Tourism

This is a great time to become part of the growing tourism market in johnson county. we are so pleased to be working with tn tech on a new branding and slogan campaign to highlight our incredible tourism partners here in johnson county. check out our new tourism landing page and feel free to reach out to us with any questions.   .

We are home to many great protected natural resources which have driven the growth in our Tourism sector. We are known as mountain and lake country, since our county consists of four mountains, three valleys and one big lake.

We offer many types of outdoor recreation including hiking, biking, fishing, paddling, camping, ATV touring and motorcycle touring.  Our goal is to preserve, protect and promote these great natural wonders, for the benefit of our residents and visitors to our area.

Johnson County is also known as the birthplace of Bluegrass Music!  

Enjoy a walk through beautiful downtown Mountain City, where a series of murals tell the story of Johnson County's rich musical heritage.  Pick up a map on the front porch of Johnson County Center for the Arts or download your printable PDF Map here !

Our main attractions include Watauga Lake which offers a variety of water sports, and the Doe Mountain Recreation Area, offering 8,600 acres of mountain terrain with several types of adventure trails. We are also home to the Snake 421Motorcycle and Sport Car Route which offers some of the best motorcycle touring in the region.

Johnson County is also designated as part of an American Viticultural Area with a beautiful vineyard that produces high quality wine grapes for two local wineries. This designation means that our area has the geographic features for producing high quality wine grapes. This recognition will influence the growth of the wine industry.

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Nashville Music-Lovers Bucket List

Immerse yourself in Music City. Discover iconic venues, museums and live music for your Nashville Music-Lovers Bucket List.

Discover why Nashville is Music City with our music-lovers bucket list. Below, you'll find Nashville music venues, iconic things to do in Nashville and more. Explore Music Row where many music hits have been and continue to be recorded. Brush up on your music history at Country Music Hall of Fame among thousands of music artifacts. Find these and more with this must-see list in Nashville.

Historic RCA Studio B on Music Row

Historic RCA Studio B on historic Music Row is a must-see in Nashville. Music lovers will be in awe of this storied studio where icons like Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton recorded some of their biggest hits and is the birthplace of the “Nashville Sound.” Stepping inside feels like traveling back in time to the golden age of country music, making it an essential stop on any Music City itinerary. The Studio B Experience is a standalone tour through the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum or can be an add-on to your Hall of Fame ticket. 

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

The Country Music Hall of Fame is one of the must see things to do in Nashville. From Hank Williams to Taylor Swift, it's a treasure trove of memorabilia and exhibits showcasing the genre's rich heritage. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just dipping your toes into country music, you'll leave with a newfound appreciation for its impact on American culture. 

Grand Ole Opry

Your Nashville bucket list isn’t complete without a stop at the Grand Ole Opry . Whether attending a show or taking a backstage tour – we recommend both – you can’t go wrong at this iconic Nashville music venue. Catching a live show here is an experience you won't forget with country legends and rising stars sharing the same stage on multiple nights a week. If you want to go behind the scenes, they offer tours where you can explore the backstage magic and learn all about the Opry's storied history.

The Ryman Auditorium

Yet another legendary Nashville music venue is The Ryman Auditorium . Known as the Mother Church of Country Music, it's hosted iconic acts like Patsy Cline, Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash. You can catch unforgettable live performances here, plus backstage tours where you can soak in the venue's rich history and even stand on the same stage where countless icons have stood.

National Museum of African American Music

The National Museum of African American Music in provides a captivating journey through the incredible impact of Black music on American culture. From gospel to hip-hop, it celebrates the diverse genres and influential artists who shaped our musical landscape. You'll walk away with a deeper understanding of how African American music has enriched our lives and inspired generations. It's a must-visit destination for music enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Broadway Historic District

Broadway Historic District is one of the best places to hear live music. And it’s hard not to hear live music when walking past the various honky tonks, bars and music venues – nearly every one has a stage and a performer at all hours. It’s like a non-stop party for music fans. Whether you're sipping on a cold beer, two-stepping with friends, or just soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, it's the perfect place to experience the soul of Music City.

CMA Music Festival

CMA Music Festival in Nashville is one of country music's biggest music festivals. Four days of non-stop music across multiple stages, with performances from the hottest stars in country music along with talented up-and-comers. From intimate acoustic sets to full-blown stadium shows, it's a chance to see your favorite artists up close and discover new ones in the heart of Music City.

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Historic RCA Studio B

Home of 1,000 Hits

Our nonprofit museum is dedicated to preserving, documenting and sharing the rich heritage of country music.

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Ryman Auditorium

Tour during the day ... Come back for a concert at night!

Broadway Historic District: Honky Tonk Highway

Country music’s biggest party

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Why Visit Monroe TN?

Whether you're looking for things to do in Monroe County, TN or planning an East TN vacation, we have everything you need to make it perfect. Monroe County is full of historic cities, hometown restaurants, and plenty of outdoor beauty. All of this combined is why Monroe County, TN is one of the best vacation  destinations with people coming from all over the united states to see our mountains and hiking trails!

Attractions

There are so many things to do in Monroe County, TN including the Cherohala Skyway, hiking trails, lakes and rivers, and much more!

If you're looking for places to stay in Monroe County, we've got several options from hotels to locally owned cabins

There are some great places to eat in Monroe County, TN. People come from all over and enjoy the locally owned hometown style restaurants!

Your next adventure starts here.

Escape. Relax. Rejuvenate.

ABOUT MONROE COUNTY

Situated in southeast Tennessee, Monroe County is the type of place that makes you feel at home the very first time you visit. From relaxing on the Tellico Lake or enjoying a round of golf in Vonore to hiking in the Cherokee National Forest in Tellico Plains, sightseeing on the Cherohala Skyway National Scenic Byway, discovering history in Madisonville and shopping in Sweetwater's nationally recognized Main Street, there is something for everyone to experience! With everything that our area has to offer, go ahead - pack your bags and come get lost in Monroe County

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President Biden delivers remarks on rebuilding infrastructure and securing jobs. He's expected to announce funding to replace lead pipes.

Northeast Tennessee music community asked to voice opinions in upcoming music census

by Ashley Hoak

BRISTOL, Tenn. (WCYB) — Northeast Tennessee musicians, music educators, venue owners -- or anyone working in the region's music scene -- are being asked to make their voices heard.

The Birthplace of Country Music is looking to grow its Northeast Tennessee music initiative with community partners.

Once signed up, those partners will gain access to a music census, slated to launch May 8, with no cost to participate.

The census will help gauge the strengths, opportunities, and needs of the Northeast Tennessee music community.

"Please take time to fill it out and give us your opinion of what we have -- and what would really help us become a Music City, and offer all the things that people that are in that business are looking for," said Leah Ross, executive director, Birthplace of Country Music.

To learn more about the Northeast Tennessee Music Initiative, or to become a community partner, click here .

The following is a press release in full regarding the Northeast Tennessee Music Initiative:

We're inviting all Northeast Tennessee musicians, music educators, venue and music store owners, recording industry and studio professionals, booking agents and artist managers, live music event industry pros, presenters, nonprofits and arts organizations -- anyone who works in the region's music scene -- to join the Northeast Tennessee Music Initiative by becoming a community partner. Once signed up, you'll gain access the Northeast Tennessee Music Census, slated to launch May 8. There is no cost to participate.

Amplify the soundtrack of Northeast Tennessee

As a music professional in this region, your input is essential. The Northeast Tennessee Music Census will help us gain a better understanding of the current strengths, opportunities and needs of the Northeast Tennessee music community so that we can create growth and future opportunities for us all.

Make your voice heard!

If music is your work and you live in Hancock, Hawkins, Greene, Washington, Unicoi, Sullivan, Carter or Johnson Counties or the city of Bristol, sign up today to become a community partner and become eligible to take the Northeast Tennessee Music Census.

The Northeast Tennessee music initiative is supported by funding from the Tennessee Entertainment Commission and the Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development, in partnership Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. The project is spearheaded by East Tennessee State University's Research Corporation in collaboration with the Birthplace of Country Music, Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association, Sync Space, Launch Tennessee, ETSU's Department of Appalachian Studies, and the Dobyns-Bennett High School Bands. The organizations will work with Sound Music Cities, a civic-oriented music policy firm, to capture quantitative information to help community leaders make informed, data-driven decisions about the local music economy across eight counties in Northeast Tennessee.

For more information about the Northeast Tennessee Music Census, visit www.NETNmusic.com .

Tennessee legislature adjourns. Here’s what lawmakers did and did not accomplish this year

Tennessee lawmakers adjourned for the year Thursday, marching off to the campaign trail having passed a $1.9 billion franchise tax break for businesses, offered no tax breaks to consumers, approved a controversial bill to allow armed teachers and failed to pass Gov. Bill Lee's priority proposal to establish a statewide school choice voucher program .

Protesters disrupting legislative proceedings during controversial debates in both chambers, only to be cleared from galleries — and occasionally led away in handcuffs — by state troopers at the request of House Speaker Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville, and Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, R-Oak Ridge.

Meanwhile, Republicans enforced stringent new rules, repeatedly silencing members for breaches of decorum and ended debate on highly high-profile bills before Democrats could speak. House GOP leadership also put in place and enforced a new unwritten rule requiring tickets in one of the chamber's public galleries.

To top it off, two separate ethics complaints were filed against members in the final weeks of session.

But lawmakers also saw bipartisan support for court reforms, protections for musicians against artificial intelligence and passed a state budget that boosts funding for teacher salaries and rural health initiatives.

For now, the 113th Tennessee General Assembly is adjourned sine die, and all pending bills that were not passed in both chambers are dead. After the November election, a new legislature will convene in January for another two-year General Assembly.

Here are among the things lawmakers did and not not accomplish this year.

What they did

∎ $1.9B FRANCHISE TAX CUT AND REFUND FOR CORPORATIONS: Lawmakers approved the largest tax cut in Tennessee history ― all for businesses ― costing $400 million in annual revenue by eliminating the property tax calculation for the state's franchise tax. Alongside the recurring tax break, lawmakers approved $1.5 billion in refunds for businesses who have paid franchise taxes based on the now-eliminated property tax measure over the last three years. Businesses receiving a refund must sign away ability to sue the state for more money, and their names will be listed publicly during the month of June 2025. Proponents of the reform argued it was necessary to avoid costly litigation.

A projected 53% of the total refund dollars will go to businesses located primarily out-of-state, according to analysis by the Department of Revenue obtained by The Tennessean. It remains unclear how much Gov. Bill Lee’s family business, the Lee Company, would benefit from the legislation . The bill awaits Lee's signature.

∎ ARMED TEACHERS BILL: Senate Bill 1325 allows Tennessee school faculty or staff to carry a concealed handgun on the grounds of the school they work at, including inside classrooms, without notifying parents. Tennessee law already allows school resource officers, assigned through an agreement between local school districts and law enforcement, to carry firearms on campus. Teachers wishing to carry firearms on school property must obtain a valid handgun carry permit, undergo fingerprinting and background check, receive a psychiatric certification, and complete 40 hours of training in school policing. They must also receive permission from the school district, the school principal, and local law enforcement.

Many districts in Tennessee, including Metro Nashville , have said they won't approve requests to carry guns on campus.

∎ CENTRALIZED CASE REPORTING SYSTEM: Lawmakers approved a measure to require the state to establish a centralized court reporting system , which will in part enable background checks for firearms sales to accurately reflect current case dispositions and keep guns out of the hands of people who are not lawfully allowed to have them. Last year, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations reported a backlog of 230,000 case dispositions that had not been uploaded into the background check database . The gap means some individuals could potentially have a criminal conviction that would disqualify them from buying a gun, but the case may not show up in a background check. The bill awaits Lee's signature.

∎ REQUIRED COMMITMENT FOR MENTALLY INCOMPETENT DEFENDANTS: In a bill named for slain Belmont University student Jillian Ludwig, lawmakers passed a bill to block criminal defendants who are deemed mentally incompetent and unable to stand trial from legally buying or possessing a gun, and require them to be committed to a facility for mental health treatment . Ludwig was killed by a stray bullet that police say was fired by Shaquille Taylor, who had previously been deemed incompetent to stand trial for another violent crime, but did not meet the standards for involuntary commitment. The bill awaits the governor’s signature.

∎ DEATH PENALTY FOR CHILD RAPISTS: Lawmakers voted to  allow the death penalty for defendants convicted of raping a child under 12 — in an effort to challenge a 2008 U.S. Supreme Court ruling. Senate Bill 1834 would allow capital punishment for adults convicted of raping a child, with certain aggravating factors. The bill awaits Lee's signature.

∎ PENALITIES FOR HELPING FOR MINORS WITH ABORTIONS WITHOUT PARENTAL CONSENT: Adults who assist minors seeking an abortion or abortion pills could soon face jail time if they don’t first get written, notarized permission from the child’s parent — even in circumstances when the child was raped by a parent, or the child is in Department of Children's Services custody without access to parents.

Sponsored by Sen. Paul Rose, R-Covington, with an aim at protecting parents’ “God-given and state-given rights to protect their minors from obtaining an abortion,” Senate Bill 1971 creates a new crime of “abortion trafficking,” criminalizing an adult who “recruits, harbors or transports a pregnant unemancipated minor” who is seeking an abortion or abortion-inducing drug — regardless of location — if they don’t first get written, notarized consent from their parent or legal guardian. The bill awaits Lee's signature.

∎ VACATED TSU’S BOARD: Republicans voted to vacate the entire Tennessee State University board over the outcries of Democrats as the GOP supermajority reneged on a previous deal struck in committee to keep three of the board's 10 members. Lee signed the bill into law the same day, and immediately appointed eight new members to the board. Republicans argued a full leadership turnover is required after a scathing state audit last year and financial issues at TSU over the years, though House Democrats on Thursday suggested wiping the board clean is retribution after the board previously refused to oust outgoing TSU President Glenda Glover. The new board is set to meet for the first time in late April. 

∎ REFORMED CERTIFICATE OF NEED REQUIREMENTS: Current law requires state approval before providers can build or expand health care facilities and services. Lawmakers approved a measure to phase out certificate of need permit requirements for new health care facilities to open in counties that do not already have hospitals, in an effort to increase access to emergency care. Advocates for reform estimate that Tennessee's certificate of need laws have blocked nearly $1.5 billion in proposed health care investments since 2000. The bill awaits Lee's signature.

∎ CHILD AUTOPSIES CLOSED TO PUBLIC REVIEW WITHOUT PARENTAL CONSENT: Lawmakers passed legislation requiring autopsies of children killed in violent crimes will not be open to public records requests without parental consent, unless the parent has been named a suspect in the child's death. Autopsy records must be reviewed in person, and no photographs or reproductions can be made. The bill awaits Lee's signature.

∎ REQUIRED SCHOOL-BASED GUN SAFETY TRAINING: Lawmakers approved a bill to require public schools in Tennessee to teach children age-appropriate, politically neutral firearms safety concepts as early as pre-kindergarten . School children will be taught concepts such as “how to avoid injury if a student finds a firearm,” “never to touch a found firearm,” and safety relating to firearms beginning in the 2025-26 school year. Proponents of the safety concepts training have likened it to mandatory school fire drills. The bill awaits Lee’s signature.

∎ REQUIRED AGE VERIFICATION FOR PORN SITES:  Lawmakers voted to require porn websites to verify all users are 18 or older before providing access to explicit content . Age verification would require submission of a U.S.-issued photo ID or a similar method. Failure by websites to verify age would be a Class C felony, punishable by three to 15 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. The attorney general would be empowered to bring legal action against companies who fail to do so. The bill awaits Lee's signature.

∎ REQUIRED AGE VERIFICATION AND PARENTAL CONSENT FOR SOCIAL MEDIA SITES: Lawmakers approved the Protecting Children from Social Media Act to require parental consent and age verification before children are allowed to create social media accounts. Similar laws in other states have faced legal challenges. The bill awaits Lee's signature.

∎ AI PROTECTIONS FOR MUSICIANS: Lawmakers approved the Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security Act, or ELVIS Act, which creates voice protections against deepfakes and unauthorized uses of artists' voices and likenesses . A host of celebrity musicians and songwriters testified in committee and joined Lee at bill announcements and signings – including CMA Entertainer of the Year Lainey Wilson, singer and actress Chrissy Metz, songwriter and producer Jamie Moore, and country star Luke Bryan.

The act adds artists' voices to the state's current Protection of Personal Rights law and can be criminally enforced by district attorneys as a Class A misdemeanor. Artists — and anyone else with exclusive licenses, like labels and distribution groups — can sue civilly for damages. The new law will go into effect July 1.

∎ REQUIRED STUDENTS TO VIEW POLITICAL FETAL DEVELOPMENT VIDEO: School children in most Tennessee counties will be required to view a three-minute animated video depicting fetal development, such as one produced by anti-abortion political action group Live Action , regardless of parental consent, beginning in the 2024-25 school year. HB 2435/SB 2767 mandates the inclusion of a computer-generated or high-definition ultrasound video depicting fetal development in family life curricula across the state, citing as an example Live Action’s “Meet Baby Olivia” animated video, which asserts that human life begins at conception, and uses an alternative developmental timeline of fetal development that is not consistent with U.S. medical standards. Lee signed the bill into law in the final days of session.

∎ $750K FOR SECURITY GRANTS FOR HOUSES OF WORSHIP: The budget included $750,000 to support the state's grant program through which 501(c)3 nonprofits can hire trained security personnel to protect houses of worship. The program is administered through the state Department of Safety and Homeland Security.

∎ $297M FOR RURAL AND MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVES: The budget included $197 million over five years in TennCare funding to go toward apprenticeships, expanding access to specialty care and telemedicine, hospital and physician practice grants. It also includes $100 million over five years in TennCare funding for community mental health centers and behavioral health hospitals to expand access to addiction treatment, in-home support, and children's hospital infrastructure.

∎ INCREASED K-12 FUNDING BY $261M: Lawmakers included a $261 million increase for the Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement funding structure for K-12 education. The funding increase will continue working toward a minimum starting salary of $50,000 for Tennessee teachers by 2026.

∎ $15M FOR CHARTER SCHOOL FACILITIES: The budget also included $15 million for public charter schools to acquire facilities. Separate legislation would give charter schools first right of refusal to lease or purchase vacant and underutilized public school facilities ― a measure was criticized by opponents as a "land grab." The bill awaits Lee's signature.

∎ BANNED STATE-FUNDED GENDER-AFFIRMING HORMONE THERAPY FOR INMATES : Lawmakers approved a measure that would bar the Tennessee Department of Corrections from using state funds to administer gender-affirming hormone therapies. Currently, there are 87 inmates in state prisons receiving gender-affirming hormone treatments, according to TDOC. The bill awaits Lee's signature.

∎ OPENED LIABILITY FOR OUT-OF-STATE TRAVEL WITH MINORS FOR TRANSGENDER THERAPIES: Lawmakers passed a bill to designate civil liability for adults who "intentionally recruit, harbor, or transport" unemancipated children for the purposes of receiving transgender-affirming medical treatments , therapies, and procedures already outlawed in Tennessee without consent from a parent or legal guardian. The final version of the bill eliminated an earlier proposal to make such travel a felony. Parents are still permitted to transport their children out-of-state for such procedures. If signed by Lee, it would take effect July 1.

∎ EXTENDED SEXUAL ASSAULT SUIT STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS: Lawmakers approved a measure to extend the statute of limitations from one year to three for victims of rape, sexual assault, and sexual battery to bring lawsuits. Extensive delays in rape kit testing have plagued Tennessee crime labs in recent years, and the Nashville Sexual Assault Center has worked with survivors whose rape kits languished untested while the civil statute of limitations expired. The new law took effect on April 4 . 

∎ PROHIBITED UNLICENSED VEHICLE BOOTING: Lawmakers passed a bill to prohibit booting vehicles in Tennessee by anyone except individuals licensed by a local government , and requiring parking enforcement to be available to remove the boot within 45 minutes of a driver's call. Towing companies would be required to notify vehicle owners before owing, selling, or demolishing the vehicle. The bill awaits Lee's signature.

∎ ADOPTED DEBANKING RESTRICTIONS: Lawmakers approved a bill to prohibit financial institutions and insurance providers from denying financial services to customers due to their political or religious views, speech, or affiliations . The bill came in response to what proponents described as a rise in de-banking discrimination by financial institutions. The bill awaits Lee's signature.

∎ BANNED ‘CHEM TRAILS’: Lee signed into law a bill banning intentional release of chemicals into the air , codifying a ban on so-called “chem trails,” a widely debunked conspiracy theory that the federal government is spreading chemicals for nefarious reasons. Processes such as cloud seeding, where clouds are aerially blanketed with a compound called silver iodide to boost rainfall, have been used in weather and precipitation management since the 1940s, particularly in the American West during drought conditions . The ban will take effect July 1. 

∎ BLOCKED DCS EXCLUSION OF FOSTER PARENTS ON ANTI-LGBT BELIEFS: Lee signed into law a bill to block the state Department of Children's Services from excluding potential adoptive or foster parents who hold anti-LGBTQ+ beliefs for "religious or moral" reasons , which sponsors argued was necessary to grow the pool of foster families in the state. Republican sponsors of the bill argued it will protect prospective foster families from being blocked from fostering children altogether if they decline to care for a gay or trans foster child, but Democrats said the bill could be dangerous if children are sent to "hostile" environments where they aren't supported or accepted. The law goes into effect July 1.

∎ OVERRULED MEMPHIS TRAFFIC STOP REFORM: Lawmakers passed legislation to block local governments from passing police reform on traffic stops over the objections of the family of Tyre Nichols, whose 2023 death after a fatal police beating sparked local Shelby County reforms. RowVaughn and Rodney Wells, Nichols' parents, traveled to Nashville to defend the Memphis reform measure they helped pass. Lee quickly signed the bill into law, and it went into effect on March 28.

∎ A HISTORIC BIBLE IS AN OFFICIAL STATE BOOK: Lee signed into law a bill designating the Aitken Bible – the first edition of the Bible printed in the United States during the Revolutionary War – as an official state book , along with nine other works including George Washington’s “Farewell Address” and Alex Haley’s “Roots." The Aitken Bible is now the only religious text designated by law as an official state book. Former Gov. Bill Haslam vetoed legislation designating the Bible as a state book on constitutional grounds. With Lee’s signature, the Bible joins the exhaustive list of state symbols, including the state amphibian (the Tennessee Cave Salamander), the state rock (limestone), and the state dog (bluetick coonhound).

∎ DESIGNATED NOVEMBER " CHRISTIAN HERITAGE MONTH :" Separate legislation designates November as "Christian Heritage Month," to "encourage citizens to learn more about Christian heritage in this state." Lee signed the measure into law.

∎ TIGHTENED IMMIGRATION REPORTING: A bill requiring local law enforcement to report individuals’ immigration status to federal enforcement authorities passed and was signed into law, despite opposition from immigrant rights groups. The law goes into effect July 1. 

∎ EXPANDED SECRECY FOR TOURISM RECORDS: Lawmakers approved a bill to keep certain records at the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development secret if the agency’s commissioner and attorney general deem them “sensitive.” Proponents of the bill repeatedly said the ability to keep records secret would help Nashville “get the Super Bowl.” Lee signed the bill into law.

∎ REQUIRED DISTINCT EMERGENCY ALARMS IN SCHOOLS: Lee signed into law a measure to require all schools in the state to create a new fire alarm policy – an effort backed by parents from The Covenant School following the deadly shooting there last year. The new law requires all schools to develop emergency procedures to determine the cause of an activated fire alarm. Covenant families have backed the bill and said confusion about the cause of a fire alarm during the March 27, 2023 school shooting led to the death of 9-year-old William Kinney. The law took effect on March 12. 

What they didn’t do

∎ STATEWIDE SCHOOL VOUCHER PROGRAM:  House and Senate lawmakers failed to come to a compromise on Lee's cornerstone policy proposal to offer state-funded scholarships of more than $7,000 to families to send their children to a private school of their choice. After more than a month of negotiations, Lee declared the proposal dead for the year .

∎ PASS A CONSUMER TAX CUT: While Lee's budget proposal this year includes $1.9 billion in franchise tax breaks for businesses, it does not include funding for a grocery tax holiday for Tennessee families. For the past several years, lawmakers have approved a month-long sales tax holiday on food, passing on tax savings to consumers. Last year, lawmakers approved a three-month sales tax holiday. Republicans blamed the exclusion on “Bidenomics.” Lawmakers voted down an effort by Rep. Aftyn Behn, D-Nashville, to eliminate the state’s grocery tax altogether. 

∎ CLARIFY LEGALITY OF CONTRACEPTIVES AND IVF TREATMENTS: Republicans on a Tennessee House subcommittee blocked a bill to codify legal protections for birth control and in-vitro fertilization treatments , arguing the bill is unnecessary and could potentially lead to abortions. Rep. Harold Love, D-Nashville , brought HB 2227 in the wake of an Alabama Supreme Court ruling that found fertilized embryos used in IVF are legally children, effectively shuttering IVF facilities in the state over legal concerns about the handling of unused embryos. The Alabama legislature quickly passed a legislative remedy to the court's ruling to allow IVF treatment to resume.

∎ PRIDE FLAGS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS: A bill aimed at banning display of political and ideological flags – including the pride flag and Black Lives Matter flag – in Tennessee public schools failed in the Senate after receiving approval from House Republicans. House Bill 1605 would have prohibited the display of any flags that “represent a political viewpoint, including but not limited to, a partisan, racial, sexual orientation, gender, or other ideological viewpoint.”

∎ CREATE AN AGRICULTURE CONSERVATION TRUST: After Lee proposed $25 million to establish a Farmland Conservation Fund, lawmakers refused to pass legislation.

∎ ALLOW CUSTOMERS TO CARRY GUNS IN BUSINESSES: Senate Judiciary Committee members narrowly blocked a controversial proposal that would have allowed concealed carry permit holders to bring guns into businesses without the property owners' consent.

∎ CRIMINALIZE TRANSPORT OF INDIVIDUALS IN TENNESSEE UNLAWFULLY: A measure that would have increased penalties for transporting individuals who are unlawfully present in the United States anywhere inside Tennessee failed in the Senate Judiciary Committee.  

∎ APPROVE FREE SCHOOL MEALS: Two separate efforts – one Democrat-led, another brought by a Republican – to make meals at public schools free for all children, reimbursed by the state, failed in the House K-12 Subcommittee . 

∎ BLOCK STATE COURTS FROM CHALLENGING THE LEGISLATURE: A proposal by Rep. Gino Bulso, R-Brentwood, seeking to block state courts from hearing challenges to any internal rules or policies the General Assembly passes failed in the Senate Judiciary Committee. The bill came in direct response to a lawsuit filed last year after three Tennesseans were dragged out of a committee hearing for holding paper signs calling for gun reform. The residents successfully sued the legislature over the House rules on signs.

∎ BAR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FROM REAPPOINTING EXPELLED LAWMAKERS: A proposal seeking to prohibit local governments from reappointing previously expelled members of the legislature – in direct response to Shelby and Davidson County governments reappointments of Reps. Justin Pearson, D-Memphis, and Justin Jones, D-Nashville, last year – was deferred to summer study , a move that often leads to the demise of legislation.

∎ SEND EMPLOYEE SEXUAL HARASSMENT INVESTIGATIONS TO AG: A short-lived bipartisan effort to move sexual harassment investigations outside the purview of the legislature to the Attorney General’s Office died as House Republicans declined to discuss the proposal – preventing a former lawmaker who resigned amid a harassment report from testifying on the bill. Currently, all sexual harassment complaints are handled internally through a confidential investigation by the Office of Legislative Administration.

Vivian Jones covers state government and politics for The Tennessean. Reach her at [email protected] or on X at @Vivian_E_Jones.

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Congressman Cohen Announces $3.3 Million Grant to Christ Community Health Services

Calls again for expansion of Tennessee’s Medicaid program, TennCare

WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that Christ Community Health Services Inc. will receive a grant of $3,354,327 to support its ongoing work with the underserved from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

“This substantial grant will help Christ Community Health Services meet the medical care necessities of those Memphians most in need of them. I am pleased to see this funding address the needs of the poor since Tennessee’s state lawmakers continue to refuse to expand our state’s Medicaid program, TennCare. It is important that we support the community health centers that provide health care that is lacking because of the careless disregard of our state government.”