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TennesseeSB 2690114th General Assembly (2025-2026)SenateWALLET
AN ACT to make appropriations for the purpose of defraying the expenses of the state government for the fiscal years beginning July 1, 2025, and July 1, 2026, in the administration, operation and maintenance of the legislative, executive and judicial branches of the various departments, institutions, offices and agencies of the state; for certain state aid and obligations; for capital outlay, for the service of the public debt, for emergency and contingency; to repeal certain appropriations and any acts inconsistent herewith; to provide provisional continuing appropriations; and to establish certain provisions, limitations and restrictions under which appropriations may be obligated and expended. This act makes appropriations for the purposes described above for the fiscal years beginning July 1, 2025, and July 1, 2026.
Sponsored By: Jack Johnson (Republican)
Signed by Governor
Appropriations
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Bill Overview
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178 provisions identified: 159 benefits, 13 costs, 6 mixed.
Death benefits for first responder families
The law funds a $25,000 death benefit for beneficiaries of a volunteer rescue squad member who dies. It provides $25,000 total for that benefit; this provision gives no further eligibility details. It also provides $50,000 total for firefighter death benefits under the 2022 law. Those benefits cover deaths from line-of-duty leukemia or testicular cancer. The firefighter payment amount per family is not stated.
State funding for Tennessee public schools
Beginning July 1, 2026, the law provides $7.121228 billion for Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement, the public school funding system. This money supports school districts and students for the 2026–2027 budget year. This provision does not change individual eligibility or create household payments.
Hospital funding rises or falls with collections
The law authorizes $1.5605885 billion in one-time TennCare hospital payments, contingent on Senate Bill 1939 / House Bill 1867 becoming law. Federal officials must also accept the coverage assessment as a valid source of state matching money for Medicaid. Collections above $1.5605885 billion fund additional hospital payments for unreimbursed costs. Collections below that amount reduce directed hospital payments by the shortfall. Hospitals receive the payments; this provision does not establish direct household payments.
Legal counsel funded for capital defendants
The law funds lawyers for defendants who cannot afford counsel and face capital cases. The funding applies only to indigent defendants in those cases. This provision does not state the total funding amount.
Legal help for low-income Tennesseans
The law funds legal representation for qualifying low-income Tennesseans using earmarked litigation-tax and bail-bond-tax revenues. The Commissioner of Finance and Administration can adjust funding based on program receipts. This provision does not state an income cutoff or a service amount per person.
Schools must help pay employee health premiums
Local school agencies must pay at least 45% of participating instructional employees' elected monthly health premiums. They must pay at least 10% for participating support staff. Employees must enroll in authorized coverage under Tennessee Code §§ 8-27-302 and 8-27-303. For calendar year 2027, the Local Education Insurance Committee sets basic-plan benefits, services, and premiums to cover expenses and approved reserves. Those settings require approval from the Commissioner of Finance and Administration.
State workers receive insurance contribution guarantees
For covered participants, state employers pay at least 80% of basic health coverage and 50% of dental coverage. They pay 100% of approved long-term disability coverage and basic term life and accident coverage. Total employer contributions cannot exceed the act's appropriations. The State Insurance Committee sets 2026 benefits and premiums within available revenue and reserves. It must account for annualized rate and benefit changes intended to start January 1, 2026.
Foster teens' housing services get expansion funding
Beginning July 1, 2026, Jonathan's Path receives a one-time $500,000 grant to expand housing services for teens in foster care. The grant supports a range of housing options. The law does not state how many teens receive help or set individual eligibility or benefit amounts.
Funding for families' education freedom scholarships
Beginning July 1, 2026, the law provides $303.92 million for Tennessee's Education Freedom Scholarship Program in 2026–2027. The appropriation funds the scholarship program for participating students and families. This provision does not set individual scholarship amounts, eligibility requirements, or how the money is divided.
Officer pay and responder families supported
The law provides $1.5296 million in recurring funding for POST Commission pay supplements to eligible law enforcement officers. A separate appropriation provides $326,400 for POST pay supplements and $1.5 million for emergency responder death benefits. The death benefit funding supports eligible families. These provisions do not state individual payment amounts or detailed eligibility rules.
Scholarship funding supports graduate-level teacher candidates
The law sets aside $1.1019 million in one-time funding for eligible Tennessee Future Teacher Scholarship candidates. It supports post-baccalaureate students in approved educator preparation programs under the eligibility law passed in 2025. The act also states an intent to earmark $1.4424 million from unused balances for 2026–2027 and 2027–2028. It does not set an individual scholarship amount.
Scholarships and college support for Tennessee students
For 2026–2027, eligible ASPIRE students get supplemental awards of $750 per semester at four-year schools or $250 at two-year schools. Eligible General Assembly Merit Scholars get $500 per semester; Helping Heroes recipients get $1,000 per semester. The Wilder-Naifeh Technical Skills Grant is $2,000; students must qualify under Tennessee's applicable scholarship program rules. Beginning July 1, 2026, Memphis receives $300,000 once, exclusively for scholarships for Tennessee students at its Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law. The Tennessee Higher Education Commission also receives $3.5 million once for tnAchieves; individual assistance amounts are not specified.
Training bonuses for local emergency workers
Eligible local governments receive funding to pay emergency medical services personnel training bonuses of up to $800 per person. Workers must complete at least 40 hours of qualifying in-service training during calendar year 2026. Training must take place at a school established or certified by the emergency medical services board. It must fit the worker's rank and duties and the department's size and location. The provision does not guarantee the full $800.
Tennessee funds disaster relief grants
The law provides $180 million from departmental revenues and federal aid for disaster relief grants in 2026–2027. A separate appropriation provides $4 million for Tennessee Emergency Management Agency disaster relief grants. The Department of Military also gets funding to match federal disaster funds and cover program costs. That funding comes first from the Reserve for Disaster Relief; specified unspent funds do not return to the general fund on June 30. These provisions do not set individual grant amounts or household eligibility rules.
Career training funds remain available for students
Unused balances from the $529 million middle and high school career and technical education grant appropriation remain available. Remaining funds also support early college opportunities, career program start-up grants, work-based learning, STEM expansion, and career readiness. Only unused balances carry forward for their listed purposes; this is not another $529 million appropriation.
Funding for early childhood education
Beginning July 1, 2026, the law provides $106.8344 million for early childhood education in the 2026–2027 budget year. The money supports programs serving children and families. This provision does not specify who qualifies, service levels, or household payment amounts.
Funding for public school buildings
Beginning July 1, 2026, the law provides $111.8891 million for local public school construction and upkeep in 2026–2027. It also provides $40 million in one-time funding for charter school facilities. Charter schools receive that money based on their pupil counts. These provisions do not state a household payment or the charter school amount per pupil.
Funding builds and improves state facilities
The law provides $456.597 million for capital projects involving state departments, public higher education, and the Facilities Revolving Fund. Eligible uses include building improvements, additions, land or space purchases, and grants. Funds are limited to specified purposes and projects in the amended 2026–2027 Budget Document. Projects require State Building Commission approval.
Nuclear industry investment funds remain available
Unused nuclear energy supply chain investment funds remain available, up to $70 million. Unused small modular reactor grant funds also remain available, up to $50 million. Only remaining balances carry forward for their designated purposes; these are not new appropriations. The law does not specify projects or individual awards.
Federal grants fund family assistance programs
Federal block grants allocate $232.7864 million for child care development and $228.7057 million for Temporary Assistance to Needy Families. They allocate $62.8503 million for low-income energy help, $36.1351 million for social services, and $13.9182 million for community services. Mental health gets $23.0533 million; substance abuse prevention and treatment gets $35.4371 million. Maternal and child health gets $2.6217 million, and preventive health gets $950,000. These allocations do not set household award amounts or change eligibility.
Funding supports services for TennCare members
Beginning July 1, 2026, TennCare gets $79.8 million in one-time funding to buy back services funded through the annual hospital assessment. The law also sets aside $43.2 million in one-time TennCare Shared Savings for that purpose. That amount corresponds to estimated Diaper Program allocations for fiscal years 2028 through 2031. These provisions do not specify changes to member eligibility or individual benefits.
TennCare funding supports nursing home payments
The law authorizes $198.4989 million in one-time TennCare funding for nursing home reimbursement. The funding depends on Senate Bill 2023 / House Bill 1864 becoming law. Collections above $198.4989 million also go toward nursing home reimbursement. Nursing homes receive the money; this provision does not set a household payment or individual benefit formula.
School funding sets student and teacher amounts
Tennessee sets base school funding at $7,530 per student, including state money and required local money. The state pays 70% of statewide base and weighted funding, plus all direct funding and outcomes bonuses. The law reserves $125 million for existing educators' raises and provides $80 million in outcomes bonuses. Schools get $500 per K–3 student and $500 per qualifying rising fourth grader scoring below or approaching in English language arts. Eligible readiness test attempts for high school juniors and seniors receive $43 each. Career and technical programs receive $5,000–$5,700, depending on program level and year. Qualifying high-cost level 2 or 3 programs receive a separate $2 million allocation, and public charter facilities receive $22 million. For 2026–2027, no district's economically disadvantaged enrollment allocation can fall below its funded 2025–2026 amount.
TennCare can limit optional coverage and benefits
The finance commissioner has authority to limit TennCare services, optional benefits, and optional eligibility groups to control spending. The authority covers fiscal years ending June 30, 2025, and June 30, 2026. It also allows the commissioner to standardize provider payment levels. The law does not require particular cuts or name the services or groups affected.
Federal aid losses trigger program cuts
When federal program aid falls, the Commissioner of Finance and Administration must lower revenue estimates and spending allotments by that amount. The Commissioner must also reduce positions funded by that aid. State matching funds and amounts tied to allowable maintenance-of-effort reductions must be held in reserve. Limited use is allowed for program reductions and required maintenance of effort. People using affected programs may receive fewer services.
Chattanooga university housing acquisition is canceled
The law cancels the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga's planned $108 million South Campus Housing Acquisition. The project was listed in the 2026–2027 budget document. This provision names no replacement project or alternative housing funding.
Colleges must match building project funds
Specified college building projects recommended in the 2026–2027 budget must include non-state matching funds. New construction requires a 17% match at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and the University of Memphis. The match is 8% at East Tennessee State, Middle Tennessee State, Tennessee Tech, and the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga. It is 6% at Austin Peay, Tennessee State, and the University of Tennessee campuses at Martin and Southern. Community colleges and specialized units need a 4% match; renovation minimums are 6%, 4%, or 2%, by institution group. Gifts must cover at least 50% of pledged new-construction matches at R1 research universities and 33% at doctoral and master's universities. Community colleges and specialized units have no minimum gift share. Matches may include gifts, grants, institutional money, student fees, and other non-state sources; the law does not require a fee increase.
Tax relief funded with changed income limits
Beginning July 1, 2026, the Comptroller's Tax Relief program receives $51.2651 million for 2026–2027. The law also changes property tax relief income limits for elderly low-income homeowners and homeowners with total, permanent disabilities. The supplied text does not give the new limits or show whether eligibility expands or narrows. Individual relief amounts are not stated.
Families get mediation service funding
The law uses available program revenues and reserves to fund family mediation, education, and related services. It does not state the total funding amount or establish an individual payment.
Funding for crime victim compensation
Beginning July 1, 2026, the law provides $14.2691 million for crime victim compensation in fiscal year 2026–2027. Funding can change based on receipts of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund. If receipts fall short, the law provides enough money to meet spending needs. Awards remain subject to existing Tennessee law; this provision does not state individual payment amounts.
Funding to pay unclaimed property claims
The law funds State Treasurer payments for valid Tennessee unclaimed-property claims and the costs of handling those claims. This funding took effect when the law was enacted. The provision states neither a total funding amount nor an individual claim amount.
Guard insurance and veterans cemeteries supported
The Department of Military is authorized to pay state-approved group life insurance enrollment costs for participating National Guardsmen. This authority applies while they are called to state active duty. The law also provides $250,000 through Veterans Services for emergency repairs at veterans cemeteries. It does not state an insurance coverage amount or name the cemeteries receiving repairs.
Refunds for wrongly collected state money
The law provides enough money to refund state collections made illegally or by mistake, including wrongly collected portions. People and organizations can receive refunds under existing law. This provision sets no fixed refund amount or new eligibility rules.
Death benefit funding for responder families
The law provides $25,000 for the Emergency Responder Death Benefit under 2017 Public Chapter 408. It also provides $75,000 for first responder death benefits under 2017 Public Chapter 445. These are program funding amounts, not payments promised to each family. Beneficiaries must qualify under the respective existing laws.
Families First gets family-size assistance rules
Beginning July 1, 2026, Human Services must set a Families First standard of need for each family size. After consulting the finance commissioner, it can also create recipient groups eligible for extra grant money. The law does not set benefit amounts or guarantee an increase.
Funding for seniors' fitness and sports
Beginning July 1, 2026, Tennessee Senior Olympics receives a one-time $100,000 grant for senior fitness and sports programs. The programs promote healthy lifestyles. This provision does not set participation rules or individual payments.
Funding supports line-of-duty health coverage
The law provides $10,000 for firefighter insurance coverage concerning leukemia or testicular cancer under 2022 Public Chapter 1091. It also provides $191,600 for line-of-duty health insurance claims. The provisions do not state individual coverage or claim amounts.
Funeral help funded for stillborn children
The law sets aside a one-time $500,000 to help pay funeral expenses for stillborn children. The provision does not state who qualifies, how much each family receives, or how funds are distributed.
Hygiene product funding helps local communities
Beginning July 1, 2026, Be Her Hero gets a one-time $50,000 grant for feminine hygiene products. The grant covers buying, storing, and distributing products through schools, shelters, and community partners in Greene County and nearby areas. It also supports related education and advocacy. The law does not set individual eligibility or product amounts per person.
Insurance funding supports covered first responders' families
The law provides $8,400 for health insurance for immediate family members of first responders covered by 2017 Public Chapter 476. This provision does not specify the amount per family or coverage terms.
Leftover funds can expand brain injury services
Available leftover Traumatic Brain Injury Fund money can support new or improved services for people with brain injuries and their families. These additional appropriations are one-time and need the finance commissioner's approval. The law does not state the available amount or provide a direct household payment.
Mental health funding helps military families
Centerstone Military Services gets $700,000 for professional counseling in three Tennessee regions. Services are for veterans and their families who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. Beginning July 1, 2026, Helen Ross McNabb gets a one-time $300,000 grant for outpatient mental health services. Those services target military members, veterans, and their families. The provisions do not set per-person service amounts or patient costs.
State contributions support retirees' supplemental medical insurance
The State Insurance Committee must maintain state contributions for eligible retired state employees and teachers enrolled in supplemental medical insurance. The annualized contribution rate cannot exceed the amount budgeted for this purpose. The finance commissioner must approve the rate. The law does not specify each retiree's contribution amount.
Support for pregnant teens in Cookeville
Beginning July 1, 2026, Hope House receives a one-time $750,000 grant for pregnant teens and teenage mothers in Cookeville. The money supports programs and services. This provision does not list specific services, individual eligibility rules, or personal payment amounts.
Travel help for St. Jude families
The law provides $263,700 to St. Jude Hospital in Memphis for patient and family travel to and from the hospital. Assistance is limited to Tennessee citizens and residents and is based on need. Applicants must document need and travel expenses as the hospital requires. The law does not set an amount per household.
Federal funds cover existing housing aid obligations
The Tennessee Housing Development Agency receives enough available federal money to meet Section 8 and Hardest Hit Fund obligations. The appropriation is limited to obligations under those programs. It does not set a total amount or change eligibility.
Funding supports children's early reading program
The law provides $456,500 in recurring funding for the Governor's Early Literacy Foundation Imagination Library. The money supports early-reading offerings for children and families served by the program. This provision does not set family eligibility rules or a household payment.
Funding supports state employee benefits
The law funds state employee cafeteria plan administration, including costs from increased participation. It provides up to $1 million for wellness or employee insurance programs and up to $154,500 for the sick leave bank. Daycare funding is capped at $10,000 and requires approval from the Commissioner of Finance and Administration. The law also funds the 401(k) employer match for state employees paid through the centralized state payroll system. It does not state an individual match amount.
Pay funding supports officers and wildlife employees
The law provides $1.5296 million for law enforcement officer pay supplements through the Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission. Beginning July 1, 2026, it funds increases to the survey-based part of the commissioned-officer pay plan. That funding covers the Department of Safety, Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy, and the commission. The law also funds an increase to the survey-based part of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency pay plan. Individual supplement and raise amounts are not specified.
Performance bonuses for state executive workers
Beginning July 1, 2026, a funding pool supports bonuses for executive branch employees based on improved performance in employee reviews. Workers covered by a legally required pay plan receive pay under that plan instead and are excluded from this pool. The provision does not state the pool's size or an individual bonus amount.
Salary funding supports public college employees
Beginning July 1, 2026, the law funds a salary pool for Tennessee public college and university employees. Each institution's governing board sets the level of raises; no particular individual increase is guaranteed. The law also provides $3.7023 million annually for salary pools and operating costs at units outside the regular funding formula. It does not specify individual raises or changes to tuition or student benefits.
Salary funding supports state employee raises
Beginning July 1, 2026, executive-branch salary funding includes performance-based pay tied to employee reviews and possible salary-range adjustments. The law funds across-the-board raises for employees defined in Tennessee Code § 8-30-102(b), with classes (b)(3)–(5) handled separately. For those separate classes, each appointing authority decides whether to give a raise and how much. Employees covered by a legally required pay plan receive pay under that plan instead; individual raise amounts are not specified. Beginning the same date, the Attorney General's office receives $518,600 annually solely to restore the salary-equity funding reduction identified on budget page A-29.
State agencies can fund employee raises
Covered state agencies can fund employee raises with extra appropriations or savings from abolishing funded vacant jobs. The finance and human resources commissioners must review and approve the money or transfers. Some agencies are excluded. The law does not guarantee raises or set their amounts or dates.
Disaster survivors' sales tax relief stays funded
The law funds sales tax disaster relief payments through the Department of Revenue under the existing disaster relief law. Funding comes first from the department's unused, uncommitted disaster relief reserve. This provision does not state payment amounts or eligibility details.
State agencies pay covered workers' professional tax
The law funds agency payment of the professional privilege tax for covered full-time state employees. Coverage and payment procedures follow the existing state employee tax-payment law. This provision does not state the tax amount.
Bartlett and Williamson fund sewer projects
Bartlett gets a one-time $5 million grant for sewer infrastructure projects, with no local matching funds required. Williamson County gets a one-time $4 million grant solely to rebuild the Grasslands STP wastewater system and address related health and environmental risks. Williamson must report progress to the Tennessee Public Utility Commission twice yearly, beginning January 1, 2027. These provisions do not set changes to household sewer bills.
Bridge repairs funded alongside county distribution rules
The law provides $40 million in one-time General Fund money for bridge repairs. Beginning July 1, 2026, a county highway funding rule splits half equally among Tennessee's 95 county areas. The other half follows each area's share of qualifying bridge length. Qualifying bridges carry loads under ten tons on public roads outside federal-aid and state highway systems. The provision does not identify particular repair projects.
Competitive grants for Tennessee senior centers
The Department of Disability and Aging receives a one-time $5 million for competitive grants to senior centers across Tennessee. Unspent funds carry forward and are reappropriated for the next fiscal year. This provision does not specify which services or projects receive funding.
Counties get special election cost reimbursement
The law provides $2 million to reimburse Tennessee counties for special election costs. This money goes to counties, not directly to households. The provision does not state how funding is divided among counties.
Cumberland Mountain lodge planning gets funding
The Department of Environment and Conservation gets $5 million to support planning for the Lodge at Cumberland Mountain State Park. The public-private development project's expected total cost is up to $66 million. This provision does not set a construction date or fund the full stated project cost.
Cybersecurity grants for local governments
The law provides $2 million for cybersecurity grants to local governments. This provision does not name recipients, grant criteria, or specific security measures.
Dismas House gets service grant funding
The law provides a one-time $1 million grant through the Department of Correction to Dismas House. The provision does not specify funded services, individual eligibility, or household payments.
Funding for alcohol-related enforcement and interlocks
The law uses Electronic Monitoring Indigency Fund revenues and reserves for local law enforcement grants. These grants support equipment and personnel for alcohol-related offenses. The law also directs fund revenues and reserves to the Treasury Department's ignition interlock grant fund. These provisions do not state funding amounts or ignition interlock recipient eligibility.
Funding for child safety services
The law provides $49,000 for operating expenses at A Secret Safe Place for Newborns of Tennessee, Inc. Child Abuse Fund revenues support grants for child abuse prevention services. Beginning July 1, 2026, Campbell County Children's Center receives a one-time $50,000 grant. That grant supports services for children removed from their homes in a five-county area.
Funding for community and family services
Human Services receives up to $3 million, including specified federal revenues, for advance payments to certain social services contractors under existing Tennessee law. The law provides $1.6136 million to Human Resource Agencies and Community Action Agencies, subject to the act's payment rules. One-time Human Services grants include $500,000 for the 211 TN Collaborative Community Services Help Line. They also include $160,000 for the Family Justice Center and $1 million for Human Coalition. These provisions fund organizations without setting new household payment amounts or eligibility rules.
Funding for domestic violence education
The law makes revenues assigned to the Domestic Violence Community Education Fund available for community education about domestic violence. This provision does not state a funding amount, delivery schedule, or household payment.
Funding for local police investigation tools
The law provides $1.5 million for local government grants for AFIS fingerprint systems. It also directs apportioned litigation-tax revenues to grants for buying and maintaining electronic fingerprint imaging systems. Beginning July 1, 2026, the East Tennessee Regional Forensic Center receives a one-time $932,640 grant. That grant funds digital forensic capabilities and training for East Tennessee law enforcement agencies.
Funding for Tennessee homeland security grants
The law provides $10.0054 million in departmental revenues and federal aid for Homeland Security Grants in fiscal year 2026–2027. The Tennessee Department of Military administers these grants. This provision does not state recipient eligibility or individual grant amounts.
Funding for Tennessee safety task forces
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation receives $6.2445 million in recurring funds and $3.473 million in one-time funds for TN Safe. The law authorizes 32 full-time positions for that initiative. The bureau also receives $3 million for the Memphis Safe task force. These provisions fund law enforcement work but do not specify direct household benefits.
Funding for Tennessee YMCA community programs
The law provides $350,000 for the YMCA Community Action Program. The Tennessee State Alliance of YMCAs receives $187,500 for rural communities and a separate $150,000 grant. These provisions do not identify specific services, household eligibility, or payments to residents.
Funding supports violence and trafficking services
The law uses available program revenues and reserves to fund family violence shelters and additional sexual assault services. Unspent funds for both programs remain available in the next fiscal year rather than returning to the general fund on June 30. It also provides $1.2 million in recurring funding for Tennessee Counter-Trafficking Coalition Grants. Those grants go to agencies recognized by state law as single points of contact. The shelter and sexual assault provisions do not state total funding amounts.
Grant for East Knoxville ministry complex
The law provides a one-time $9 million grant to the East Knoxville Area Ministry Complex. The provision does not specify funded activities, who can use services, or direct financial aid for households.
Grant funds regional conference in Tennessee
Beginning July 1, 2026, Chi Boule Chapter of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, Inc. receives a one-time $50,000 grant. The grant must fund hosting a regional conference in Tennessee. This provision does not provide household payments.
Grants for local courthouse repairs
Cannon County receives a one-time $250,000 grant for courthouse improvements. The Department of Economic and Community Development receives another one-time $500,000 for county and municipal courthouse projects and maintenance. Municipalities receiving sales-tax revenue from a courthouse square revitalization zone are ineligible for that grant program. Unspent money from the $500,000 program carries forward and is reappropriated for the next fiscal year.
Grants fund emergency facilities and security
Smith County gets $1 million once to relocate emergency response facilities. Eligible Tennessee houses of worship receive $1.25 million in one-time security grants. Beginning July 1, 2026, the Department of Safety gets $140,000 once, solely for executive protection unit training. These funds support facilities and protective operations, not household payments.
Grants improve county agricultural fair facilities
The Department of Agriculture receives a one-time $1.5 million for a grant to the Tennessee Association of Fairs, Incorporated. The Association must use it to fund capital improvements at county and regional agricultural fairs. Households do not receive direct payments.
Grants improve local parks and zoo
Hancock County receives a one-time $500,000 to finish county park infrastructure, with no local matching funds required. The Chattanooga Zoo receives a one-time $5 million through the Department of Tourist Development for capital improvements. Beginning July 1, 2026, Rhea County receives a one-time $150,000 for monuments and other assets at Dayton's veterans park. These grants do not provide payments to households or veterans.
Grants preserve local history and heritage
Fayetteville receives $30,000 for acquisition, improvements, maintenance, and interpretation at Camp Blount Historic Site. Beginning July 1, 2026, Claiborne Heritage Center receives a one-time $100,000 to restore Graham-Kivett House and convert it into a museum. Also beginning July 1, 2026, Campbell County Historical Society receives a one-time $10,000 for programs and services. Those include historical preservation, preserving veterans' graves, and historical education videos.
Grants support families and trafficking survivors
The Tennessee Strong Families—TN Fosters Hope appropriation funds six organizations. CarePortal receives $550,000, Tennessee Kids Belong $600,000, Belmont Innovation Labs $150,000, and Contingent $1.65 million. Restore Hope receives $350,000, and Thistle Farms receives $400,000. Thistle Farms' money supports statewide return-to-community, work, and housing programs for trafficking survivors involved in the justice system. These grants fund organizations rather than direct household payments.
Jackson County funds fairgrounds improvements
Jackson County gets a one-time $10,000 grant. The money must be used for improvements to the Jackson County Fairgrounds.
Local governments get immigration enforcement funding
The law gives the Department of Safety available revenues and reserves from the Immigration Enforcement Local Grant Fund. The money supports immigration enforcement grants to eligible local governments through the fund established by state law. This provision does not state a funding amount or create direct household payments.
Local parks and recreation projects funded
Beginning July 1, 2026, the Local Parks Acquisition Fund gets $3.9003 million for 2026–2027 to help eligible entities acquire parks. Collierville gets the unspent balance of a one-time $3 million appropriation for two extensions. Those projects extend the Wolf River Boulevard sidewalk and Robbins-Hale Nature Preserve trail. A one-time $500,000 grant through the Department of Disability and Aging supports the Cookeville Inclusive Youth Soccer Facility. The soccer grant does not set individual access rules.
Local water and sewer projects funded
Beginning July 1, 2026, Sevier County receives a one-time $6 million for a sewer line extension. It serves Old Newport Highway, Jones Cove Road, and Dixon Branch Road. Elizabethton receives a one-time $20,000 beginning the same date to rebuild and refurbish the Hampton Community Water Tower. Erwin Utilities Authority receives up to $2.5 million from the Hurricane Helene Relief Fund, only for replacing its storm-damaged wastewater plant. These provisions do not set customer rates or household connection charges.
Memphis and Oak Ridge fund public safety
The law provides $50 million for a downtown Memphis public safety grant. It provides another $15 million for Memphis crime intervention grants using focused deterrence. Oak Ridge gets the unspent balance of a one-time $2.5 million appropriation for police equipment. That money funds body-worn and in-car cameras, related systems and technology, and less-lethal energy weapons. The Memphis provisions do not name recipients or detailed program rules.
Memphis safety grant excludes distribution costs
The $50 million one-time Memphis downtown public safety grant cannot pay state offices' or agencies' grant-distribution costs. The restriction keeps grant funds from covering those administrative expenses. It does not create a household payment or eligibility rule.
More equipment for wildlife damage control
Beginning July 1, 2026, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency gets $50,000 once for traps. The traps support wild hog and other wildlife damage-control work. The provision does not identify which residents receive services or promise household savings.
More funding for disability community programs
The Department of Disability and Aging provides three one-time grants. Crossville Inclusive Playground gets $500,000, Special Olympics gets $100,000, and TN Believes gets $1 million. These provisions do not set participation rules or direct household payments.
More funding for justice support programs
The Office of Criminal Justice Programs gets $6 million once for evidence-based programs. The Electronic Monitoring Indigency Fund gets $600,000 once. These provisions do not identify specific program services or eligibility rules. They also do not say how individual monitoring costs change.
More funding for museum and music
The law provides one-time grants of $1 million to MUSE Knoxville and $150,000 to Stax Music Academy. The provisions do not specify funded activities, participation rules, or direct payments to households.
More funding for museums and history
Beginning July 1, 2026, the State Museum provides the Green McAdoo Cultural Organization a $50,000 annual grant. It supports maintenance, restoration, and operations of the Green McAdoo Cultural Center. The Andrew Jackson Foundation gets $8 million once for capital improvements at Andrew Jackson's Hermitage. The Memphis Art Museum gets $5.5 million once to build a new museum. These grants do not establish visitor discounts or household payments.
Museum grants fund repairs and preservation
The State Museum receives a one-time $5 million for grants supporting museum capital maintenance and improvements. Recipients must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or affiliated with a government entity. Unspent grant-program money carries forward and is reappropriated for the next fiscal year. The Museum of Appalachia separately receives a one-time $10,000 for historic buildings, collections, and Appalachian history education programs.
One-time grants for arts and history
The Arts Commission provides a one-time $25,000 grant to Contemporary Arts Memphis. Historical Commission grants provide $1 million to the Andrew Jackson Foundation / The Hermitage and $3 million to the East Tennessee Historical Society. These are also one-time grants. The provisions do not specify funded activities or direct benefits for visitors and residents.
One-time grants for children and youth
The law funds one-time Children's Services grants of $3 million to Agape and $500,000 to Coalition 4 Kids. It also provides $250,000 to Lambi Learns, $500,000 to Viable, Inc., and $540,000 to Wendy's Wonderful Kids. One-time Human Services grants provide $500,000 to Big Brothers Big Sisters and $5 million to Boys & Girls Club. These provisions do not specify the funded programs or set individual payments or eligibility rules for families.
Opioid response and emergency teams funded
The law uses opioid abatement fund revenues and reserves for work addressing opioid harms, without stating an amount. An Office of Criminal Justice Programs opioid grant gets $609,600 for 2025–2026 and $1.219 million for 2026–2027. Volunteer Tennessee gets $105,000 in 2025–2026 for Community Emergency Response Team trailers. These specified grants use departmental revenues and federal aid. Their unspent balances on June 30, 2026, remain available for 2026–2027.
Planning funds for Johnson County youth sports
Beginning July 1, 2026, Johnson County receives a one-time $30,000 grant to plan and engineer a youth multi-sports complex. The money funds project preparation, not construction. The provision does not set a date for building the complex.
Public spending must follow civil rights
State agencies and other funded entities cannot spend money appropriated by this law in violation of Title VI. This is Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The provision does not specify a new individual remedy or household payment.
Regional juvenile justice centers get funding
The law provides $10 million each for grants to the West Tennessee and East Tennessee Juvenile Justice Centers. It also provides one-time funding of $95,000 for the Tennessee Juvenile Court Services Training Program. These provisions do not set individual service eligibility or household payment amounts.
Remaining funds for Chattanooga public facility
Chattanooga receives the unspent balance of a one-time $1.75 million appropriation. The grant pays for building, renovating, or improving a building used as a public facility. The law does not state how much remains unspent.
Rescue and ambulance groups get equipment
The law provides $5 million in one-time competitive equipment grants to volunteer rescue squads. Squads need a valid State Fire Marshal recognition certificate, and fewer than 51% of staff can be full-time career rescue personnel. The Department of Health gets another $5 million for competitive equipment grants to licensed emergency medical services organizations, awarded in equal amounts. Unspent money from both equipment programs carries into the next fiscal year. The Tennessee Association of Rescue Squads also gets a separate $100,000 grant.
Tennessee funds emergency response needs
The law allows up to $1 million for listed emergency needs, with total spending capped at that amount. Uses include natural disasters, livestock loss payments, extra veterinary payrolls, pest control, and livestock disease control. Funds can also pay for personnel or equipment to restore law and order during civil disorders. The money can be used only for these purposes.
Veterans foundation receives one-time state grant
The law provides The Honor Foundation a one-time $500,000 grant through Veterans Services. The provision does not specify funded services, eligibility rules, or direct payments to veterans.
Volunteer fire departments get grant funding
The law provides $20 million in one-time competitive grants to volunteer fire departments for equipment, supplies, or state fire academy training. The commissioner must try to divide funding among Tennessee's three grand divisions based on their numbers of recognized volunteer departments. Unspent grant funds carry into the next fiscal year. Roan Mountain, Elk Mills-Poga, and Hampton-Valley Forge volunteer fire departments each get a separate one-time $500,000 grant. Each must use its grant to replace a fire engine destroyed by Hurricane Helene.
Water planning grant for Giles County
The law provides a one-time $500,000 grant to the Giles County Water Alliance through the Department of Environment and Conservation. The money must fund a countywide water infrastructure study. This provision does not fund specified construction or change household water bills.
Extra funding supports health and children
The law provides extra funding to the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and Department of Children's Services. The amount is limited to revenues collected from TennCare managed-care organizations. It is in addition to amounts appropriated under Chapter 530, Public Acts of 2025. The provision sets no fixed dollar amount or direct household benefit.
Food banks receive hunger relief funding
The law gives Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee $1 million to purchase, handle, and transport hunger-relief food. It must split the money: Middle Tennessee 35%, Memphis 25%, East Tennessee 20%, Chattanooga 10%, and Northeast Tennessee 10%. Society of St. Andrew – Tennessee also receives a recurring $100,000 grant for food bank supplies and hunger-relief operations. These provisions do not set household eligibility or direct payment amounts.
Funding for substance use prevention and recovery
The Prevention Alliance of Tennessee receives $200,000 to establish, train, and support substance use prevention coalitions. Available program revenues and reserves fund halfway houses primarily serving people with drug or alcohol offenses. Unspent halfway-house funds remain available after June 30 and are reappropriated for the next fiscal year. The 21st Judicial District Recovery Court also receives a one-time $400,000 grant.
Funding supports addiction and mental health
Electronic Monitoring Indigency Fund revenues and reserves fund community alcohol and drug addiction treatment; no total is stated. The Northeast TN Regional Recovery Center gets a one-time $500,000 grant. Departmental revenues and federal aid provide $422,800 for an Opioid Abatement Council Quality Director in each budget year, 2025–2026 and 2026–2027. They also fund Bonnaroo community mental health grants of $26,000 and $74,000 in those years, respectively. Unused June 30, 2026 balances for the director and festival grants carry into 2026–2027.
Funding supports care in underserved communities
The Health Access Incentive Fund receives $3 million for programs improving access, including primary, pregnancy, and dental care in underserved areas. The Health Commissioner directs spending, with approval from the Commissioner of Finance and Administration. Other care gaps can receive support when the Health Commissioner finds a need. Kingsport receives $500,000 once for dental clinic expansion; a related grant provision begins July 1, 2026, without stating another amount. These provisions fund programs and clinic capacity, not direct resident payments or specified patient prices.
Funding supports children's care and advocates
Children's Services gets $36.8114 million to recalculate its residential custodial budget and $16.2918 million to align eligibility requirements. The provision does not explain the eligibility changes or individual benefits. Beginning July 1, 2026, the Commission on Children and Youth gets $70,000 once to expand Court Appointed Special Advocates programs. The money must support expansion to three additional counties, which are not named.
Funding supports pregnancy center grants
The law provides $10 million in one-time TN Strong Families pregnancy center grants. It restores $1.7178 million in crisis pregnancy grant funds that had reverted. Unspent crisis pregnancy center grant balances remain available for grants. None of these funds can pay state offices' or agencies' costs for distributing the grants. The provisions do not set individual assistance amounts or eligibility.
Funding supports summer food for families
The law provides $3 million for the Summer Nutrition Program and $5 million for Summer Food Assistance. Beginning July 1, 2026, Human Services also gets a one-time $7 million exclusively for Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer. These funds support summer food help for participating children and families. The provisions do not state household benefit amounts or eligibility rules.
Funding targets health facility survey backlog
Beginning July 1, 2026, the Health Facilities Commission gets $1.8 million once. The money must be used solely to resolve its survey backlog. It supports facility oversight and does not change household eligibility for health services.
Grant supports hospital care for seniors
Methodist South Hospital's Geriatric Center of Excellence gets a one-time $1 million grant. The provision does not specify funded services, patient eligibility, or direct household payments.
Grants fund pregnancy care nurse educators
The law provides $500,000 to five Regional Perinatal Centers, with $100,000 going to each center. The grants must support additional nurse educators and related services. The provision does not provide direct patient payments or specify individual benefits.
Grants support cancer designation and research
Beginning July 1, 2026, the University of Tennessee Medical Center gets $7 million once to pursue National Cancer Institute designation. The grant does not guarantee that designation. Vanderbilt University Medical Center's ALS Research Center gets $10 million once for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis research. These grants do not create patient payments or change treatment eligibility.
Grants support disability services and epilepsy education
Crumley House in Washington County receives $100,000 restricted to programs and services for people with traumatic brain injuries. Vanderbilt University Medical Center receives $355,000 restricted to its Providing Access to the Visual Environment program. Beginning July 1, 2026, the Epilepsy Foundation of East Tennessee receives $100,000 once for people with epilepsy and caregivers. That grant supports seizure first-aid, seizure-type education, and awareness programs. The provisions do not establish direct payments to individuals.
Grants support local health care providers
One-time grants provide $1 million each to Clinica Medicos and Hardin County for its medical center. Siloam Health and the Tennessee Poison Center each get $500,000 in one-time grants. Kingsport gets $500,000 once to expand its dental clinic. Beginning July 1, 2026, Good Samaritan Ministries gets $44,150 once to replace equipment used for free eye exams. These grants do not set patient eligibility or direct household payments.
Grants support men's health and wellness
The law provides $190,000 for nonprofit health outreach to Tennessee males, including underserved residents. The nonprofit must predate January 1, 2004, and have substantial experience providing health outreach and education to males in Tennessee. It must also have received a Health Department-administered contract and funding through the Attorney General's June 2003 vitamin supplement settlement. Separately, the Meharry Wellness Program receives a $500,000 grant. The Meharry provision does not specify services, participant eligibility, or direct household payments.
More support for recovery court services
Beginning July 1, 2026, Macon County Recovery Court receives $100,000 each year for programs, services, and operations. Families Free, Inc. gets $250,000 once for Northeast Tennessee Regional Recovery Center recovery court services. That grant supports centers for men in Roan Mountain and women in Johnson City. These provisions do not set individual eligibility or household payments.
Replacement funding supports family child care
The law provides $5 million to replace federal child care funding. The money supports Tennessee child care programs. The provision does not specify eligibility, family payment amounts, or how the money is distributed.
College access and vocational grants stay available
Unused funds remain available for Veteran Reconnect, Tennessee Promise Forward, rural college access micro grants, and federal college access grants. This includes remaining balances from the $25 million Governor's Investment in Vocational Education community grant appropriation. Federal college access grant revenue and reserves must keep serving their original purpose. The law preserves funding, not a new per-student award.
Funding for school buildings and programs
The law provides $10.616 million to local school agencies for public-school construction and maintenance. It also provides $10 million in one-time safety grants to eligible schools and $325,000 once for school milk dispensers. Education funding includes $1.2734 million for Paid Parental Leave and $11 million for Grade A Schools. These provisions do not specify individual leave benefits, school grant amounts, or household payments.
Funding for Tennessee rural education
The law provides $14.6 million for the Governor's Rural Education Foundation. It also directs a specified appropriation to be paid directly to the foundation. The provided provisions do not identify which students or communities qualify or how the money is allocated.
Grants fund officers in public schools
Local governments can receive grants for one full-time, state-certified school resource officer per public school. Funding is capped at $75,000 per officer each year, with no more than one funded officer per school. Local law enforcement must sign an agreement with the school served, using the Department of Safety's required form. The program requires periodic audits and quarterly reports beginning October 1, 2025.
Grants support learning and career education
One-time education grants provide Code Crew $500,000, the Niswonger Foundation $1 million, and Star Academy $1 million. Their funded activities and participant eligibility are not specified. Beginning July 1, 2026, the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry receives $750,000 once for Learning Blade, Career Blade, and Ready for Industry. Junior Achievement of East Tennessee also receives $1.2 million once for a statewide high school financial literacy course pilot. The pilot does not require every school to participate or every student to receive the course.
Grants support Tennessee teacher training groups
The Education Department provides one-time grants of $1 million each to Memphis Teacher Residency and Teach for America. The provisions do not specify funded activities, who can participate, or direct payments to teachers or households.
Grants support youth education programs
The law provides a $700,000 grant to Carroll Academy and $25,000 for the YMCA Youth Legislature. The provisions do not specify student eligibility or payments to families. They also do not specify how Carroll Academy must use its grant.
Lottery funding for after-school programs
Beginning July 1, 2026, the law provides $19.3463 million from the lottery-funded account for after-school programs in 2026–2027. It also authorizes three-year grants to eligible organizations under the state after-school grant law. That grant authority is limited to the available balance in the Lottery for Education After-School Programs Grant Fund. These provisions fund services, not direct payments to families.
School leave reimbursements and service funding
The law funds reimbursements to local education agencies for paid leave, without stating the reimbursement amount here. Unused grants from non-state sources and donations to state special schools remain available for their stated purposes. The unused balance of a $50,000 one-time therapy-dog appropriation also remains available.
Unused school and student funds stay available
Unused money stays available for rural principal training, civics, special education, school safety, learning loss, summer programs, and school turnaround. This includes remaining balances from $2 million for Teach Tennessee and $3 million for seat belt grants. Listed standards reviews, priority school grants, and charter facility funds also remain available. Unused Education Savings Account and Education Freedom Scholarship Account balances remain available for participating or eligible students under their program laws. Unused, uncommitted state testing money stays reserved only for testing.
Work training funding for Memphis crime intervention
The law provides $15 million for work-centered training grants for crime intervention in Memphis. This provision does not set individual eligibility rules or grant amounts.
Community project funding for smaller towns
The law provides an estimated $55.5632 million for Small Cities grants and loans across fiscal years 2025–2026 and 2026–2027 combined. Eligible Tennessee cities and counties must be outside federally designated entitlement areas; projects must mainly help low- and moderate-income people, address blight, or address threats to health, safety, or public welfare. Construction grants are capped at $1 million per project, equipment-only grants at $420,000, and assistance considers the recipient's ability to pay. Spending-plan changes need legislative approval during session; outside session, the Governor can submit changes to the State Funding Board or call a special session. The law also appropriates federal aid for Community Development Block Grant spending requirements without stating a separate amount.
Funding for local airports and railroads
Beginning July 1, 2026, the law provides $20 million in one-time funding to improve Tennessee's short-line railroads. The money goes through the Transportation Department's Transportation Equity Fund. It directs $4 million from general aviation airport funds to Livingston Municipal Airport upgrades in Overton County. Crossville receives a one-time $1.2 million grant for capital projects at Crossville Memorial Airport. These provisions do not state household payments or changes in travel or freight costs.
Funding for Memphis airport express delivery
Beginning July 1, 2026, the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority receives a one-time $2 million grant. The money supports express delivery distribution at Memphis International Airport. This provision does not specify changes to household shipping costs or delivery service.
Funding for regional economic development districts
Beginning July 1, 2026, the law provides $3.6139 million for Tennessee economic development district grants. The funding covers fiscal year 2026–2027. This provision does not name recipients, set project requirements, or create household payments.
Funding moves Cookeville's existing utility tower
Beginning July 1, 2026, Cookeville receives a one-time $750,000 grant to move and replace an existing Tennessee Valley Authority tower. The tower is near Jefferson Avenue and Neal Street. The provision does not specify changes to utility costs.
Funding widens Rockvale's State Route 99
Beginning July 1, 2026, the Department of Transportation receives a one-time $4 million for a Rockvale road project. The money can only widen about 2.5 miles of State Route 99, also called Salem Highway, in Rutherford County. The provision does not estimate travel-time savings, safety changes, or household savings.
Grants for farming and community agriculture
Hawkins County receives a one-time $3.5 million grant for a 4-H Livestock Event Center, farmers' market, and university extension offices. The offices serve the University of Tennessee and Tennessee State University. Before payment, the county must acquire the property and notify the state finance commissioner in writing, copying both legislative finance committee chairs. No local matching money is required. The Agriculture Department also provides a one-time $250,000 grant to Urban Roots of Tennessee, with no specific activities stated.
Grants support alumni and economic programs
The law provides one-time economic development grants to two named programs. Choose 901 Alumni Initiative gets $1 million, and the SME PRIME Program gets $1.2 million. The provisions do not describe funded services or who qualifies to receive them.
Grants support regional and community development
The law provides $538,900 for Development District Grants. It also provides $2.5 million once for John Sevier Center Development. Hawkins County gets $3.5 million once for a community facility and farmers market. The provisions do not set direct household payments or individual eligibility rules.
Matching grant for Pigeon River outfitters
The Pigeon River Outfitters Association receives a one-time $1.5 million grant. The money must serve as a federal grant match. The provision does not state the federal grant amount or create a direct household benefit.
Milan gets industrial park purchase funding
Milan gets a one-time $551,000 grant to help cover costs of buying an industrial park. Any unspent money returns to the general fund on June 30, 2027. The provision does not promise jobs or direct household payments.
More funding for advanced computing infrastructure
The law adds $23 million in one-time funding for Quantum Infrastructure. Beginning July 1, 2026, Tennessee Tech University gets $4 million once. That money is solely for establishing and supporting its supercomputer at the Crossville campus. These provisions do not establish household payments.
More funding for nuclear research facilities
The law renews $25 million from the small modular nuclear reactor grant fund for a companion facility project. The project serves the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and the Y-12 National Security Prototype Center. Before payment, the economic development commissioner must certify at least $25 million in secured federal matching funds. Beginning July 1, 2026, the Oak Ridge Corridor Development Corporation gets two one-time grants. They provide $3 million for an Oak Ridge Nuclear Innovation Campus building and $750,000 for research and planning.
More funding for zoos and parks
One-time grants provide $20 million to Nashville Zoo and $5 million to Knoxville Zoo. Pigeon River Adventure Park gets $1.5 million. Beginning July 1, 2026, the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Association gets $2.7 million once. That grant funds renovation and expansion of three RV parks. These provisions do not set visitor discounts or household payments.
More money for Tennessee tourism marketing
The law adds $2 million in one-time tourism marketing funds. This brings the total one-time marketing amount to $15.5 million. The funding does not establish direct household payments.
State funding required for costly local mandates
A general law adding more than $1 million in city and county costs cannot take effect without funding the state's share. The law also provides enough money for qualifying mandates passed during the 2026 annual session. These mandates must impose costs without local choice. Funding comes from specified growth in state-shared taxes and local revenue.
State funding supports two Nashville conferences
Beginning July 1, 2026, the law provides $5 million once to host a Council of State Governments National Conference in Nashville. It also grants $50,000 once to the Tennessee Conference of Zetas, Inc. That grant supports the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority International Boule Conference in Nashville in July 2026. Neither provision establishes payments to attendees.
State funds help cover local costs
The County Revenue Partnership Fund gets $1.9 million for each fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, and June 30, 2027. The money comes from the state's general fund share of sales and use tax for specified local costs. A separate appropriation covers 10% of mandated city and county costs for changing payment methods for chiropractic services. That funding applies only if Senate Bill 225/House Bill 29 becomes law. These payments go to local governments, not directly to patients or households.
State payments for approved county claims
The law provides enough money to pay lawful state debts to Tennessee counties. These include unpaid court costs, unpaid tax distributions, and other amounts owed. The Comptroller and Governor must investigate and approve the claims. This appropriation excludes state shares of county and city costs required by Article XI, Section 24 of Tennessee's Constitution. No fixed total amount is stated.
Water and sewer grants for counties
Bedford County receives a one-time $10 million grant for a sewer line supporting an automotive sports complex on U.S. Highway 231. Cumberland County receives a one-time $9.75 million grant for water and infrastructure. The Cumberland provision does not name specific projects. Neither grant creates direct payments to residents or states changes to utility bills.
Funding supports ambulance provider payments
The law provides $13.2183 million in one-time TennCare funding for ambulance provider payments. Funding depends on Senate Bill 2221 / House Bill 2097 becoming law. Collections above that amount also fund ambulance provider payments. The money goes to providers, not directly to households.
Health safety-net programs keep funding available
The law makes program revenues and reserves available as needed for CoverRx, CoverKids, Project Diabetes, and other health safety-net programs. Unused safety-net funds can carry forward for spending beginning July 1, 2026. Carryforward requires approval from the Commissioner of Finance and Administration. The provision does not set individual benefit amounts or change eligibility.
TennCare funds disability care and meals
TennCare gets $24.6185 million in recurring funding for intermediate care facilities serving people with intellectual or developmental disabilities. The law also provides $445,500 in recurring funding for higher home-delivered meal payment rates. It does not state the size of the meal rate increase. These provisions do not specify changes to individual eligibility or out-of-pocket costs.
Cash rewards for high-performing school systems
The law provides up to $17 million in rewards for qualifying school systems. At least 50% of a system's eligible schools must have received an A grade. Payments follow the state school incentive law. Systems can budget and spend payments in the year received, including qualifying payments previously funded under the 2025 law.
Extra aid for qualifying school systems
The law provides up to $40 million for eligible fast-growing school systems, including no more than $5 million for infrastructure stipends. Up to $13 million supports legally identified systems moving to the new funding formula or facing funding drops greater than 5%. Up to $10 million helps identified systems in distressed or at-risk counties whose required local school funding increases. Up to $8 million goes to identified school systems tied to active tourism development zones. These payments go to school systems, not households.
Funding supports business training and development
Beginning July 1, 2026, FastTrack receives $25.0064 million for infrastructure and job training assistance in 2026–2027. The Southeast Tennessee Development District receives a one-time $200,000 grant for the Smart Factory Institute's statewide manufacturer support and research. Harriman receives a one-time $100,000 grant for infrastructure and economic development, including planning and design. Harriman's project is off State Highway 29, north of Interstate 40 at Exit 350. These provisions do not set individual business awards or household payments.
Funding supports colleges and specialized programs
The law provides a one-time $2.882 million higher-education grant to Moore Tech. Middle Tennessee State University receives $5 million once for cybersecurity programs and its cyber range. Beginning July 1, 2026, East Tennessee State University's Gatton College of Pharmacy receives $3.2 million in recurring annual operating support. That support covers inflation-related costs, including salaries, operations, and group health insurance, like other specialized units outside the regular funding formula. These appropriations do not specify tuition changes or direct student payments.
Funding to close teacher pay gaps
The law provides up to $14.5 million to address differences in teacher pay. Distribution follows the state teacher compensation law and is limited to available funds. This provision does not set an individual teacher's payment.
Labor Department grants for two organizations
The Labor Department provides one-time grants of $40,000 to the Flight Foundation and $200,000 to The Forge. The provisions do not describe the funded activities. They do not establish individual payments or household eligibility rules.
One-time funding for college access support
The law provides a one-time $1 million grant to TN Achieves through the Higher Education Department. This provision does not specify student eligibility, individual payments, or changes to student costs.
Public universities can redirect existing funds
A Tennessee public four-year institution that received the specified 2022 funding can receive money from existing capital project funds. The transfer covers mission-essential costs, including operating expenses; no dollar amount is stated. Approval is required from the Commissioner of Finance and Administration and the Comptroller. The institution must follow a memorandum of understanding. Both legislative finance committee chairs must acknowledge in writing that they received notice of approval.
Schools can preserve formula and bonus funding
When the school formula generates more funding than appropriated, Education can use specified unused or reduced school allocations to avoid overall cuts. The finance commissioner must approve that use. Unspent school outcomes incentive money also stays available for future outcomes awards instead of returning to the general fund.
Tax receipts fund bail agent education
The law uses earmarked bail-bond-tax receipts to develop and provide continuing education for professional bail bonding agents. The Commissioner of Finance and Administration can adjust the appropriation based on program receipts. The provision does not state a fixed funding amount or change the tax rate.
Tennessee farms and brewers get program funding
Beginning July 1, 2026, Agriculture receives $100,000 in ongoing annual funding for Farm to Tap. The program supports Tennessee agricultural products in brewing and promotes the state's brewing industry. The appropriation does not establish direct payments to individual farms, brewers, or households.
New criminal courts get less setup funding
The law cuts one-time funding by $72,400 to implement two additional criminal courts in Tennessee's 30th judicial district. It does not cancel the courts or specify a change in court access.
Veterans cemetery expansion gets less implementation funding
The law cuts funding to implement expanded state veterans cemetery burial eligibility for reserve-component members. One-time reductions total $22,600 in 2026–2027 and $12,000 in 2027–2028. This funding cut does not itself revoke or narrow cemetery eligibility.
School funding falls after updated enrollment counts
The law reduces Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement school funding by $24.5 million to match updated enrollment. It does not state how districts share the reduction or how student services change.
Counties face inmate housing payment cap
State reimbursement to counties for housing convicted felons is capped at $41 per inmate per day. Higher payments apply only to the extent required by a specific written contract. Counties may be responsible for housing costs above the state payment.
Legislative initiative funding drops eight million dollars
The law cuts the Legislative Initiatives appropriation by $8 million. The reduction includes $3 million in ongoing funding and $5 million in one-time funding. It does not identify affected programs or changes in household assistance.
Regional tourism groups receive less grant funding
The law cuts one-time funding for direct marketing organizations and regional grants by $2 million, leaving $5.5 million. It does not identify which recipients lose money or specify a direct household effect.
Set fees for covered regulatory boards
The law sets a state regulatory fee of $5 for one year or $10 for two years. It replaces an allocation of indirect costs to covered regulatory boards. The supplied provision does not identify the boards or who is assessed the fee.
Spending reports for state-funded organizations
Any entity receiving state money under this law is subject to Comptroller audits of how it spends and commits funds. Nongovernmental recipients of direct appropriations must file a plan showing proposed uses and expected benefits before receiving money. They must submit an interim status report by February 1. Within 90 days after the receiving fiscal year ends, they must account for spending and benefits with a notarized statement. The agency head may require an audited financial statement instead, and a copy must go to the Comptroller.
State money for Davidson County stadiums
The law sets aside up to $3.2618 million for state bond payments tied to a Nashville and Davidson County sports stadium grant. The money is intended to come first from specified sales tax revenues. It also provides enough money from a construction trust reserve for financing a domed stadium in Davidson County. That reserve provision took effect upon enactment and states no dollar amount. These provisions fund stadium financing, not household payments.
Approval rules govern homeland security grants
Federal Homeland Security grant allotments require approval from the Commissioner of Finance and Administration. Distribution among state and local agencies follows State Homeland Security Council approval or procedures. The Commissioner can move appropriations and positions to provide required state matching funds. Those adjustments must be filed with the Fiscal Review Committee and Office of Legislative Budget Analysis. Households do not receive a direct grant entitlement.
Courthouse grants continue with eligibility limits
The unspent balance of a $2 million one-time appropriation remains available for county courthouse capital projects and maintenance. Counties and municipalities can receive grants for courthouse buildings within their boundaries. Municipalities receiving sales tax revenue from a courthouse square revitalization zone are ineligible.
State park funding requires county match
Beginning July 1, 2026, the law provides $10 million to establish a state park at former Clark Center Park. The U.S. Department of Energy must transfer the property to Tennessee. Anderson County must provide a $6.25 million local match before June 30, 2031. If the transfer and match are not completed before that deadline, the funds return to the general fund on June 30, 2031.
Development funds stay available with limits
Unspent FastTrack funds remain available, and approved transfers can shift money among listed development, business, innovation, and job-skills programs. Transfers cannot underfund contracted projects unless agreements reduce required spending or other funds cover the gap; unused transfers may return to FastTrack. Capital-project transfers must use current funds, not bond authorizations, and meet grant-agreement and State Building Commission conditions. Unspent rural development, LiftTN urban, workforce, marketing, mobility, and research and innovation grant funds also remain available. Historic property grant balances are capped at $25 million; TNGO Tennessee Mobility Innovation Initiative balances are capped at $7.5 million.
Sponsors & Cosponsors
Sponsor
Jack Johnson
Republican • Senate
Cosponsors
Reeves
Affiliation unavailable
Paul Rose
Republican • Senate
Jessie Seal
Republican • Senate
Bo Watson
Republican • Senate
Roll Call Votes
Senate vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: as Amended Third Consideration 4/16/2026
Yes: 26 • No: 5
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR LAY ON THE TABLE MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 16 BY JOHNSON PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 73 • No: 20
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 20 BY BEHN PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 19 • No: 73
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR LAY ON THE TABLE MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 17 BY JOHNSON PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 75 • No: 20
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 12 BY CLEMMONS PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 19 • No: 67
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 5 BY JONES J PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 18 • No: 74
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 21 BY BEHN PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 20 • No: 74
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR MOTION TO CONSIDER AMENDMENT # 23 BY CLEMMONS PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 21 • No: 72
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 8 BY HEMMER PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 24 • No: 67
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 7 BY HEMMER PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 23 • No: 66
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR MOTION TO CONSIDER AMENDMENT # 22 BY CLEMMONS PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 21 • No: 72
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 10 BY CLEMMONS PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 19 • No: 69
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR PREVIOUS QUESTION MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 10 BY CLEMMONS PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 69 • No: 20
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR PREVIOUS QUESTION PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 76 • No: 19
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 83 • No: 12
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 19 BY BEHN PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 18 • No: 73
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 18 BY BEHN PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 20 • No: 73
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 15 BY CLEMMONS PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 19 • No: 74
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 14 BY CLEMMONS PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 24 • No: 65
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR LAY ON THE TABLE MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 13 BY CLEMMONS PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 73 • No: 19
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 11 BY CLEMMONS PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 24 • No: 61
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR PREVIOUS QUESTION MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 11 BY CLEMMONS PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 69 • No: 19
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 9 BY HEMMER PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 22 • No: 67
House vote • 4/16/2026
FLOOR VOTE: APPROPRIATIONS CALENDAR LAY ON THE TABLE MOTION TO ADOPT AMENDMENT # 4 BY SALINAS PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/16/2026
Yes: 71 • No: 20
Senate vote • 4/15/2026
SENATE FINANCE, WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE
Yes: 9 • No: 2
Actions Timeline
Effective date(s) 05/22/2026, 07/01/2026
5/27/2026Pub. Ch. 1142
5/27/2026Signed by Governor.
5/22/2026SenateTransmitted to Governor for action.
5/11/2026SenateSigned by H. Speaker
5/7/2026HouseSigned by Senate Speaker
5/6/2026SenateEnrolled and ready for signatures
5/5/2026SenateSponsor(s) Added.
4/17/2026SenatePassed H., Ayes 83, Nays 12, PNV 0
4/16/2026HouseAm. withdrawn. (Amendment 1 - HA1159)
4/16/2026HouseFailed to adopt am (Amendment 21 - HA1182), Ayes 20, Nays 74, PNV 0
4/16/2026HouseFailed to adopt am (Amendment 20 - HA1181), Ayes 19, Nays 73, PNV 0
4/16/2026HouseFailed to adopt am (Amendment 19 - HA1180), Ayes 18, Nays 73, PNV 0
4/16/2026HouseFailed to adopt am (Amendment 18 - HA1179), Ayes 20, Nays 73, PNV 1
4/16/2026HouseAm. tabled. (Amendment 17 - HA1178)
4/16/2026HouseAm. tabled. (Amendment 16 - HA1177)
4/16/2026HouseFailed to adopt am (Amendment 15 - HA1176), Ayes 19, Nays 74, PNV 0
4/16/2026HouseFailed to adopt am (Amendment 14 - HA1175), Ayes 24, Nays 65, PNV 2
4/16/2026HouseAm. tabled. (Amendment 13 - HA1174)
4/16/2026HouseFailed to adopt am (Amendment 12 - HA1173), Ayes 19, Nays 67, PNV 5
4/16/2026HouseFailed to adopt am (Amendment 11 - HA1172), Ayes 24, Nays 61, PNV 2
4/16/2026HouseFailed to adopt am (Amendment 10 - HA1171), Ayes 19, Nays 69, PNV 3
4/16/2026HouseFailed to adopt am (Amendment 9 - HA1170), Ayes 22, Nays 67, PNV 1
4/16/2026HouseFailed to adopt am (Amendment 8 - HA1169), Ayes 24, Nays 67, PNV 0
4/16/2026HouseFailed to adopt am (Amendment 7 - HA1168), Ayes 23, Nays 66, PNV 0
4/16/2026House
Bill Text
Enrolled / Public Chapter
HA1159
HA1160
HA1164
HA1165
HA1166
HA1167
HA1168
HA1169
HA1170
HA1171
HA1172
HA1173
HA1174
HA1175
HA1176
HA1177
HA1178
HA1179
HA1180
HA1181
HA1182
HA1183
HA1184
Introduced
SA1056
SA1057
SA1058
SA1062
SA1063
SA1064
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